11 Lok Sabha constituencies in Maharashtra are set for elections in the third phase, marking the battleground for political contests.

Baramati, Hatkanangale, Kolhapur, Latur, Madha, Osmanabad, Raigad, Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg, Sangli, Satara and Solapur are covered under the third phase of polling

The major electoral battle in Maharashtra revolves around the Mahayuti alliance consisting of the BJP, NCP, and Shiv Sena against the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, comprising Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP (SCP). These alliances are focused on key constituencies across western Maharashtra, Konkan, and Marathwada, with elections scheduled for May 7.

Ajit Pawar, particularly concerned about Baramati, Raigad, and Osmanabad seats, sees these as pivotal for his political future. These constituencies witness intense contests, such as Sunetra (Ajit's wife) against Supriya Sule in Baramati and Sunil Tatkare against Anant Geete in Raigad.

Osmanabad's battleground features second-generation candidates from prominent political families, highlighting the intense competition between Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP. BJP faces challenges in Madha and Solapur due to defections and strong opposition candidates like Dhairyasheel Mohite Patil.

The Solapur seat, contested by Congress's Praniti Shinde and BJP's Ram Satpute, reflects BJP's strategic candidate changes to combat anti-incumbency. Meanwhile, leaders like Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis are actively campaigning for their parties, with BJP aiming to maintain its past electoral performance despite challenges.

The Hatkanangale and Kolhapur constituencies witness multi-cornered fights, while Sangli sees a rift within Shiv Sena (UBT) leading to independent candidacies. Satara features Udayanraje Bhosale contesting against Shashikant Shinde, reflecting intra-party dynamics.

Latur remains a stronghold for Congress but faces BJP's strong presence. Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg's contest between Narayan Rane and Vinayak Raut also holds significance. Overall, these crucial seats will determine the political landscape in Maharashtra post-elections, with both alliances deploying top leaders for extensive campaigning as polling day approaches.