The political scene in Maharashtra intensifies with the declaration of by-elections for the Baramati and Rahuri Assembly constituencies. The Congress party is set to contest both seats following approval from the party leadership. These by-elections were necessitated by the unfortunate passing of BJP MLA Shivajirao Kardile in Rahuri and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in Baramati due to a plane crash on January 28. Voting is scheduled for April 23, with the results to be announced on May 4.
NCP’s Sunetra Pawar, the party’s national president and state Deputy Chief Minister, will file her nomination papers on April 6 in Baramati to showcase the party’s strength. The Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has begun the candidate selection process, receiving six applications for Baramati and four for Rahuri. Final decisions on candidates will be made in consultation with Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies within the next two days.
In response to Congress’ actions, Shiv Sena(UBT) MP Sanjay Raut emphasized the importance of a collective decision within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). Raut highlighted the concept of “family duty” in Baramati, suggesting that NCP(SP) might abstain from contesting out of respect for Ajit Pawar. He stressed the need for a joint decision-making process within the MVA.
Shiv Sena(UBT) MP Sanjay Raut also mentioned the effective contesting history of Prajakt Tanpure from NCP(SP) in Rahuri. He subtly criticized Congress’ national strategy, pointing out the importance of regional strength in the MVA’s foundation. Tanpure, interested in contesting on the NCP(SP) ticket, awaits the party’s decision on the matter.
The move by Congress to vie for these seats has added complexity to the MVA’s internal dynamics, potentially testing the alliance’s unity. While the BJP has already nominated Akshay Kardile for Rahuri, the MVA’s cohesion will be scrutinized in the upcoming days. A high-level meeting of MVA leadership is anticipated to prevent any internal conflicts that could benefit the Mahayuti alliance.
