Political activity has intensified in Maharashtra ahead of by-elections to two विधानसभा seats, Baramati and Rahuri, with potential polling scheduled for 23 April. All major parties are strengthening their strategies as reports of Sunetra Pawar’s visit to Delhi add to the developments. She is expected to meet several senior leaders in the national capital, which could influence the direction and strategy of these by-elections.
Baramati Seat Emerges as Central Contest
The Baramati seat has drawn significant attention in the upcoming by-election. The constituency has long been associated with the Pawar family and its political legacy. As a result, the contest has taken on added significance linked to political standing and legacy.
The Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) has fielded Sunetra Pawar as its candidate from Baramati. The decision is considered important for the party, which regards Baramati as a bhold.
Call for Unopposed Election
A key issue in Baramati is the demand for an unopposed election. The NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) has appealed for the seat to be declared uncontested as a mark of respect for a deceased leader. The appeal has been made citing earlier political practices in Maharashtra.
The NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) has also supported this demand, stating that it will not field a candidate for the seat. This indicates the possibility of a one-sided contest in Baramati, although the final situation remains unclear.
Political Activity Intensifies in Rahuri
Alongside Baramati, political developments have also increased in the Rahuri seat. The Bharatiya Janata Party has nominated Akshay Kardile, son of the late leader Shivajirao Kardile, as its candidate. The candidature reflects a continuation of political legacy within the family.
Opposition parties are also working on their strategies for this seat. According to sources, the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) is considering Prajakta Tanpure as a potential candidate, though no official announcement has been made.
Congress Position Under Watch
The role of the Congress is also being closely observed. Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee president Harshvardhan Sapkal has indicated that the party may enter the contest if the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) does not field candidates on these seats.
Delhi Visit Adds to Political Developments
Sunetra Pawar’s visit to Delhi has become a focal point in the ongoing political developments. Reports indicate that she may meet senior leaders including Narendra Modi, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Amit Shah. These potential meetings have led to discussions within political circles.
It is being suggested that the issue of conducting the Baramati election unopposed may be discussed during these meetings. Any decision in this regard could influence the course of the by-election.
Nomination Timeline
Sunetra Pawar is expected to file her nomination on 6 April. Political activity is likely to intensify ahead of the deadline, which is also set for 6 April, as parties finalize their strategies.
Election Schedule
The election schedule has already been announced. The nomination process began on 30 March and will continue until 6 April. Scrutiny of nomination papers is scheduled for 7 April. Candidates can withdraw their nominations until 9 April. If polling takes place, it will be held on 23 April, with counting scheduled for 4 May.
Test of Alliance Equations
The by-elections to these two seats are also being viewed in the context of broader political alignments in Maharashtra. The contest between the National Democratic Alliance and opposition alliances is expected to reflect the prevailing political equations in the state. The outcome, particularly in Baramati, may have wider political implications.
