The 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections saw a close contest in the Aurangabad East constituency, with BJP's Atul Save ultimately emerging victorious over AIMIM's Imtiaz Jaleel.
Jaleel, a prominent Muslim leader and sitting MLA from the constituency, had been widely expected to retain his seat. However, Save, a local BJP leader, managed to secure a narrow victory by a margin of just over 1,500 votes.
The result is a setback for AIMIM, which had hoped to increase its presence in the Maharashtra Assembly. However, it also reflects the growing popularity of the BJP in the state, particularly in urban areas.
Jaleel, who has been a vocal critic of the BJP government, has alleged that the election was rigged. He has also accused the BJP of using communal polarisation to win votes.
The BJP has denied these allegations, and has said that the election was conducted fairly.
The close contest in Aurangabad East is a sign of the changing political landscape in Maharashtra. The BJP, which has traditionally been strong in rural areas, is now making gains in urban areas as well.
The result is also a reminder of the importance of caste and community in Indian politics. Jaleel is a Muslim, while Save is a Maratha. The caste factor is believed to have played a significant role in the outcome of the election.
The 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections were a closely fought contest, with the BJP ultimately emerging victorious. The result is a setback for the opposition, but it also reflects the changing political landscape in the state.