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Opposition ally backs rival NCP faction in Baramati, signalling rare unity beyond political divide, as NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) MLA Rohit Pawar on Wednesday, April 15, began a three-day campaign in the constituency in support of his late uncle Ajit Pawar’s wife, Sunetra Pawar, the Mahayuti alliance candidate from the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction, for the upcoming by-election.

Family priority

Baramati, considered a stronghold of the Pawars, has witnessed intense political activity since the by-election was announced. The Sharad Pawar-led NCP, which is part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), has firmly maintained that it would not contest the seat. Also, Rohit’s active campaigning for the rival faction’s candidate is seen as an attempt to maintain the family’s cordial relationship and influence in the constituency.

Three-day tour

Sharad Pawar led NCP spokesperson, Sunil Mane, stated that Rohit Pawar will tour several parts of the constituency over the next three days, holding public meetings and interacting with local voters to drum up support for Sunetra Pawar. “Ajit Pawar played a key role in the development of Baramti. Post the death of Ajit Dada, Sunetra Tai is contesting from the constituency. It is time to support her to complete the vision of late Ajit Pawar,” Mane added.

Party split

In 2023, Sharad Pawar’s nephew Ajit Pawar engineered a split in the party and joined the Mahayuti alliance. Now, Rohit, participating in the campaign, has drawn attention as it reflects a rare crossover between two rival factions of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), which have been at odds since the party split.

Poll schedule

The by-elections were necessitated following the deaths of Ajit Pawar, who represented Baramati, and Shivajirao Kardile, the sitting BJP MLA from Rahuri. As per the schedule announced by the Election Commission, voting for both constituencies will be held on April 23, while the counting of votes is set for May 4.

April 15
Day the campaign began