In a significant political development, the Congress party has withdrawn its candidate from the upcoming Baramati Assembly by-election, effectively easing the path for Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister SunetraPawar.
The decision came just before the deadline for withdrawal of nominations and follows repeated appeals from senior leaders across parties, including members of the Pawar family and Maharashtra Chief Minister DevendraFadnavis. The move is widely being seen as a gesture of respect for the late AjitPawar, a veteran leader and former Deputy Chief Minister, whose death earlier this year necessitated the bypoll. �
Congress leaders stated that the withdrawal was made in consideration of AjitPawar’s long-standing political legacy and contributions. Senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leaders, including SharadPawar and SupriyaSule, had also urged the party to step aside to avoid a divided contest. �
With the Congress exit, SunetraPawar—who stepped into active politics after her husband’s death and currently serves as Deputy Chief Minister—is now the clear frontrunner. She is widely expected to secure victory without major opposition.
However, despite Congress pulling out, the election may not be entirely uncontested. Several independent candidates remain in the fray, though none are seen as posing a serious challenge to Pawar’s prospects. �
The Baramati bypoll is scheduled to be held on April 23, with counting set for early May. The constituency holds strong political significance, having been a bastion of the Pawar family for decades.
The development highlights shifting political strategies and alliances in Maharashtra, with opposition parties balancing electoral competition and symbolic gestures in a high-profile contest.
