NEW DELHI: As the counting of votes has begun in both Maharashtra and Haryana, the situation seems to be in favour of the ruling BJP.

Two hours since the counting of votes began, the BJP-Shiv Sena are leading in Maharashtra. While the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance is leading in 166 seats, the Congress-NCP alliance is currently enjoying lead in 88 seats. The Maharashtra assembly has 288 seats.

In Haryana, both BJP and Congress are involved in a tight competition with BJP leading in 45 seats while Congress leading in 28 seats. The Haryana assembly has 90 seats.

Earlier, the exit polls had predicted that the BJP will be able to retain power in both states. The voting which took place on Monday had registered 61% in Maharashtra and 65% in Haryana.