The Maharashtra Congress on Wednesday firmly denied reports suggesting that leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party had approached it to withdraw its candidate from the upcoming Baramati assembly bypoll. The party described such claims as “false, misleading, and baseless,” accusing the BJP of spreading misinformation for political purposes, reported PTI.
Congress Rejects Reports of Any Communication
In an official statement, Congress leaders clarified that no discussions or communications had taken place between the two parties regarding the withdrawal of its nominee. The party emphasised that reports claiming otherwise were “incorrect and devoid of facts.”
The Congress further alleged that the rumours were deliberately circulated to create confusion among political allies, particularly targeting the Nationalist Congress Party, reported PTI.
Political Tensions Rise Ahead of Bypoll
The Baramati assembly seat fell vacant following the death of senior leader Ajit Pawar in a plane crash on January 28. The bypoll is scheduled for April 23, with counting set for May 4.
Ajit Pawar’s wife, Sunetra Pawar, who assumed the role of deputy chief minister and also became president of the NCP after his passing, is contesting the election as the candidate of the ruling Mahayuti alliance.
Opposition Shows Mixed Approach to Contest
While two opposition parties – the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) and the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) – have chosen not to field candidates as a mark of respect, the Congress has decided to stay in the contest.
The party has nominated Akash More as its candidate, maintaining that democratic processes should continue despite the circumstances. The last date for withdrawal of nominations is April 9, leaving limited time for any potential changes.
Fadnavis Appeals for Unopposed Election
Earlier, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had expressed hope that the Congress would respect “public sentiment” and withdraw its candidate, thereby allowing an unopposed election in Baramati, reported PTI.
However, the Congress strongly criticised the appeal, calling it the “height of hypocrisy” and questioning the BJP’s intent.
Congress Sets Condition for Possible Withdrawal
The Congress has indicated that it may reconsider its participation in the bypoll if a first information report is registered in connection with the plane crash that led to Ajit Pawar’s death. The party has maintained that accountability and transparency in the incident are essential, reported PTI.
High-Stakes Contest in Political Stronghold
Baramati remains a politically significant constituency in Maharashtra, and the upcoming bypoll is expected to draw considerable attention. With conflicting narratives, emotional undertones, and strategic positioning by multiple parties, the election is shaping up to be a closely watched political contest.
(With inputs from PTI)
