Opposition views Maharashtra's inaugural five-phase Lok Sabha election schedule as favoring the BJP.

In a state where BJP is facing tough challenge, Opposition leaders see a plan to ride on Modi everywhere. Regions where NDA talks toughest will vote last

The Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra will be held across five phases for its 48 seats, spanning from April 19 to May 20. This extended schedule has drawn criticism from the Opposition, who view it as a strategy favoring the BJP due to its resources, organizational strength, and efficient election machinery.

For instance, Western Maharashtra and North Maharashtra, contested battlegrounds with seat-sharing disputes, are scheduled for the last two phases (May 13 and 20). This timing gives the BJP and its allies more time to coordinate and strategize for critical constituencies and utilize their star campaigners effectively.

Marathwada, with 8 seats, will see polls in three phases due to its potential volatility stemming from the Shiv Sena and NCP clashes, compounded by the Maratha reservation issue and OBC backlash.

In contrast, Vidarbha's 10 seats will have elections in two phases at the beginning (April 19 and 26). Mumbai voting in the final phase may pose challenges for the BJP as its North Indian immigrant vote base tends to migrate during summer vacations.

The BJP aims to leverage the Modi factor in most seats, planning rallies efficiently across regions during the gap between phases. Notable campaigners like Amit Shah, Yogi Adityanath, Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar will cover all constituencies and hold joint rallies.

The decision to hold five phases has sparked debate, with the Opposition questioning its necessity and alleging bias towards the ruling party. Despite Maharashtra having the second-most constituencies, single-phase polling across 288 Assembly seats in the past suggests that multiple phases may not be imperative.

The Election Commission's rationale likely revolves around maintaining law and order, especially in sensitive areas like Marathwada and Naxal-affected regions. However, critics argue that technological advancements like EVMs render elongated elections unnecessary.

While the BJP defends the EC's decision, stating it benefits both sides, the Opposition perceives it as an attempt to skew the campaign timeline in favor of the ruling party. The coming elections will test these strategies and their impact on Maharashtra's political landscape.