BJP prepares for Maharashtra assembly polls, aims for 2.5 cr voters

The ruling BJP is already on the move in Maharashtra. After its sterling performance in Lok Sabha election, the party has launched preparations for the assembly election slated for October. The party has set an ambitious target of winning on its own 2.5 crore votes and together with Shiv Sena 200 plus seats in the 288 member legislative assembly.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who will lead the party and projected as its CM candidate, will launch a state wide Sampark Yatra from August 2 and address 200 rallies. Ministers will step up travel in their districts.

The party has already appointed 'Vistaraks' or 'Labharthi Sampark Pramukhs' in 225 constituencies to reach out to beneficiaries of various development and welfare schemes launched by the Modi government and the state government. Vistaraks have been given the mandate to further strengthen the party organisation with active participation of local leaders and public and reach out to voters, especially first-time voters.

On Raksha Bandhan, the party intends to reach out to 20 lakh women across the state by involving large number of self-help groups.

State party general secretary and legislator Atul Bhatkhalkar told DNA, "Party's machinery is geared up for the coming election. The party is certain of its victory like in the general election, but we do not want to leave any stone unturned. We will try to keep opposition leaders confined to their constituencies.''

Newly appointed party working president JP Nadda will review poll preparedness during his maiden visit to Mumbai soon. On July 20, Nadda will interact with state party officer-bearers, district presidents and legislators and MPs, and on July 21 he will address 4,500 Mandal pramukhs.

BJP MLAs and and MPs have been asked to register new members and voters.