The Congress on Thursday officially withdrew its candidate from the Baramati bypoll, stating that the move was aimed at preserving Maharashtra’s long-standing political culture and maintaining decorum in the wake of a recent tragedy, reported news agency PTI.
The party’s candidate, Akash More, pulled out of the race just ahead of the nomination withdrawal deadline in Pune district. Confirming the development, Akash More said he acted in accordance with instructions from the party leadership, bringing an end to Congress’ participation in the closely watched by-election.
Decision rooted in political culture and respect
Announcing the decision, Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal said the withdrawal was prompted by the tragic demise of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who passed away in a plane crash a little over two months ago, reported PTI.
Sapkal emphasized that the Congress chose to step back to uphold the state’s tradition of political sensitivity and mutual respect during times of loss. He noted that while Ajit Pawar began his political journey with the Congress, he later aligned with other parties, reported PTI.
The Baramati bypoll has drawn significant attention as Sunetra Pawar, Ajit Pawar’s widow and current Deputy Chief Minister, is contesting the seat.
Election to proceed despite Congress exit
Despite Congress withdrawing from the contest, the by-election will proceed as scheduled on April 23, with vote counting set for May 4. According to party leaders, more than 30 candidates remain in the fray, ruling out the possibility of an uncontested election.
Sapkal clarified that while Congress has withdrawn its candidate, it is not extending support to any other contender in the election. The move, he reiterated, is purely symbolic and rooted in maintaining decorum rather than political alignment.
Appeals and political outreach influenced decision
The decision followed sustained outreach from several political leaders. Sapkal revealed that Sunetra Pawar had personally contacted him multiple times and had also met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi to request the party’s withdrawal from the contest.
He also dismissed speculation that the move was influenced by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, stating that the decision was taken independently by the Congress leadership, reported PTI.
Focus shifts to future electoral battles
Looking ahead, Sapkal asserted that Congress is preparing for a stronger political contest in the future. He stated with confidence that the party will field a candidate in Baramati in the 2029 assembly elections and aims to secure victory, reported PTI.
The Congress leader also drew attention to the Rahuri assembly bypoll in Ahilyanagar district, which was necessitated by the death of BJP legislator Shivajirao Kardile. He argued that the same standards of political decorum should apply there as well, reported PTI.
In Rahuri, the BJP has fielded Akshay Kardile, son of the late MLA, while the opposition has nominated Govind Mokate as its candidate.
A rare moment of restraint in competitive politics
The Congress’ decision to withdraw from the Baramati bypoll reflects an unusual moment of restraint in an otherwise competitive political environment. While electoral battles often dominate the political narrative, the move signals an attempt to balance political strategy with sensitivity and respect during a period of mourning.
As the bypoll approaches, all eyes will remain on Baramati, not only for its electoral outcome but also for the broader message it sends about political conduct in Maharashtra.
(With inputs from PTI)
