The BJP-led Mahayuti coalition’s landslide victory in Maharashtra has diminished the re-election chances of prominent Opposition leaders Sharad Pawar, Priyanka Chaturvedi, and Sanjay Raut in the Rajya Sabha. The coalition secured 235 out of 288 seats in the state elections, leaving the MVA alliance with only 49 seats, weakening its influence in the Upper House.
Sharad Pawar, whose Rajya Sabha term ends in April 2026, earlier hinted at this being his final tenure. However, political analysts attribute the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction)’s weakened standing to the party split and low support from allies. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders Chaturvedi and Raut face similar challenges, with the latter’s term expiring in 2028.
Political expert Suhas Palshikar remarked, “The BJP’s dominance in Maharashtra underscores the dwindling power of traditional players like Pawar, marking a significant shift in state politics.”
Maharashtra’s representation in the Rajya Sabha plays a critical role nationally, as the state elects 19 members. Currently, the BJP holds seven of these seats, bolstered by allies, with the MVA factions holding fewer seats combined. The BJP’s growing majority could further consolidate its influence in the 245-member Rajya Sabha, potentially crossing the halfway mark with upcoming vacancies in other states.
Priyanka Chaturvedi responded to the developments, stating, “While setbacks are part of politics, our fight for democratic principles continues.” Sharad Pawar echoed a similar sentiment, emphasizing his focus on rebuilding NCP’s presence amid political turmoil.
With no immediate vacancies in Maharashtra and the BJP likely to gain from upcoming elections elsewhere, the Opposition faces an uphill battle to regain its footing, both in the state and nationally.
