1972 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly election

The 1972 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly election was held on February 12, 1972, to elect members of the 6th Legislative Assembly of the Indian state of Maharashtra. These elections were significant as they took place during a period of political realignment following the Emergency declared in 1975. The Indian National Congress, led by Chief Minister Vasantdada Patil, aimed to consolidate its power, while the opposition faced challenges from regional parties. A total of 288 constituencies were contested, with the Congress securing a decisive victory, winning 164 seats and reinforcing its dominance in the state's political landscape. The election results reflected the preferences of the electorate and set the tone for subsequent political developments in Maharashtra.