Maharashtra is experiencing a surge in election-related violence during its local poll season, with incidents ranging from threats to murders. A recent stabbing in Akola resulted in the death of Congress vice-president Hidayat Patel, allegedly by a member of his own community motivated by a long-standing family feud and a 2019 murder accusation. This follows a pattern of escalating violence, including attacks on other political figures and party offices across the state, ahead of upcoming municipal elections.