Nagpur (Maharashtra) [India], November 23 : As the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance returns to power in the Maharashtra with historic mandate, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Saturday said that they were confident of the majority in assembly polls "but got an unprecedented victory."
"We were confident that we (Mahayuti) would get a majority and form the government in Maharashtra, but we got an unprecedented victory. The way the people of Maharashtra have shown their trust in Mahayuti, our responsibilities have increased and we will work to fulfil all the expectations of the people," Union Minister Nitin Gadkari told reporters here.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Saturday called it a "record-breaking victory" for the alliance.
The ruling Mahayuti alliance is leading in over 233 seats while opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) is leading in just 48 seats.
Addressing a press conference alongside Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, Shinde said, "This is the record-breaking victory of Mahayuti. We are thankful to the whole of Maharashtra...We removed all the obstacles created by the MVA during their governance.."
In celebration, Shinde, Fadnavis, Pawar and other Mahayuti leaders showed victory signs and exchanged sweets as they prepared to form the government again.
Emphasising that their government represents the "common man", Shinde thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support. In a symbolic gesture, he redefined "CM" to mean "Common Man" instead of "Chief Minister."
"Our government is the government of the common man. I'm thankful to PM Modi for his incredible support. Women, children, and farmers were our central focus. We aim to transform the common man into a 'Superman'. For me, CM stands for Common Man," Shinde said.
Deputy CM Fadnavis expressed his gratitude towards the people of Maharashtra, acknowledging the increased responsibility that comes with their overwhelming support.
"We are humbled by the support of Maharashtra and its people. This victory has increased our responsibility. Maharashtra has shown its full support for Modi ji and we will do everything to reciprocate their trust," he said.
The assembly polls in Maharashtra were held on November 20