Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal on Tuesday described as unnecessary the controversy surrounding the Congress decision to field a candidate in the Baramati assembly by-election. Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Sapkal said there was no need to politicise the issue or create friction over electoral choices.
He emphasised that every political party has the right to take independent decisions regarding participation in elections.
Baramati bypoll becomes focal point of political debate
The by-election, scheduled for April 23, has drawn significant political attention. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar is contesting the seat, which fell vacant after the death of her husband Ajit Pawar earlier this year.
The ruling alliance had appealed for an uncontested election as a mark of respect. While parties such as the NCP (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT), part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi, chose not to field candidates, the Congress announced Akash More as its nominee, triggering political reactions.
Response to criticism from Parth Pawar
The Congress decision faced criticism from Parth Pawar, who remarked that the party was facing a decline in Maharashtra and would suffer consequences for contesting against his mother. His statement sparked reactions from multiple political leaders across parties.
Responding indirectly to such criticism, Sapkal reiterated that elections should be conducted with dignity and mutual respect. He stressed that democratic processes should not be overshadowed by unnecessary disputes or personal remarks.
Call for maintaining democratic values and decorum
Sapkal highlighted that differences of opinion among political leaders are a natural part of democracy. However, he said the focus should remain on ensuring a fair and smooth electoral process rather than engaging in avoidable controversies.
He added that the Congress would soon clarify its official stance in detail regarding the by-election, indicating that further communication from the party leadership is expected.
Encourages voter participation, praises civic responsibility
Apart from addressing the bypoll issue, Sapkal also praised voters from Kerala residing in Mumbai who are travelling back to their home state to cast their votes. He described their efforts as a commendable example of democratic responsibility.
According to him, such participation reflects the true spirit of elections as a celebration of democracy. He urged citizens to actively participate in the electoral process and contribute to higher voter turnout.
The Baramati by-election continues to remain politically significant, with developments around party strategies and alliances shaping the broader discourse in Maharashtra politics.
(With inputs from PTI)
