The resignation is seen as a reflection of the internal discord and shifting dynamics within the alliance. Patole, who has often been vocal about Congress's role in the MVA, reportedly submitted his resignation citing accountability for the electoral setbacks. His departure has added to speculation about the future of the Congress’s leadership in the state and its relations with its MVA partners.
Exit polls had largely predicted a victory for the ruling Mahayuti coalition, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies, including the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction and the Ajit Pawar group of the NCP. These projections materialized into a decisive win, further marginalizing the opposition bloc. While the Congress has maintained its commitment to the MVA, disagreements over strategies and leadership roles have fueled tensions.
The electoral loss has also intensified debates within the Congress about its leadership approach in Maharashtra. Patole had frequently advocated for a more assertive stance, suggesting that the Congress should take a lead role in decision-making within the alliance. However, this view has not always aligned with the broader MVA strategy, particularly in the context of negotiations with allies.
The MVA, formed in 2019 to counter the BJP, has faced a series of challenges, including defections and ideological differences. Despite these issues, leaders from the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the NCP have expressed confidence in the alliance's longevity. However, Patole's resignation raises questions about whether the Congress can maintain its influence within this coalition.
Sanjay Raut, a senior leader from the Shiv Sena (UBT), recently dismissed claims of Congress dominance in the alliance, emphasizing that decisions regarding leadership would be collective. Raut also criticized the exit polls, calling them unreliable and asserting that the MVA would emerge stronger. His statements underscore the complex interplay of ambitions and strategies within the opposition.
The Mahayuti's victory further consolidates the BJP's position in Maharashtra, a state that has historically been a battleground for coalition politics. The BJP's alliance with the Shinde and Pawar factions has not only expanded its voter base but also created a formidable opposition to the traditional MVA bloc. Analysts suggest that the BJP's organizational strength and strategic alliances played a key role in its success.