The resolution of internal disputes within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) may have ended one battle, but a new and intense political contest is brewing in the Baramati constituency, the hometown of both political heavyweights, Sharad Pawar and his nephew, Ajit Pawar. Ajit Pawar, an MLA from Baramati, has declared that the Mahayuti (Grand Alliance) will contest the four seats secured by the party in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, making Baramati a central point of contention.
The stakes are high as Sharad Pawar’s daughter, Supriya Sule, currently holds the Baramati seat in Parliament. However, Ajit Pawar is reportedly considering fielding his wife, Sunetra Pawar, as a candidate against her. Despite Sunetra Pawar lacking experience in major elections, she has been actively involved in social initiatives for Baramati, heading the Environmental Forum of India and contributing to eco-village concepts in India. She also holds key positions in educational institutions and organizations, and chairs the Baramati Hi Tech Textile Park.
In contrast, Supriya Sule has been the Member of Parliament for Baramati since 2009, succeeding Sharad Pawar. The upcoming election will mark her first battle for Baramati after the party split. If Sunetra Pawar enters the race, voters in Baramati will have to choose between ‘Tai’ (Sule) and ‘Vahini’ (Pawar).
Ajit Pawar’s faction is actively campaigning in Baramati, utilizing trucks with images of Sunetra Pawar and Ajit Pawar, along with an online campaign in her support. While Sule emphasizes the democratic nature of elections, the situation raises questions about whether her track record and local connections will secure votes against Sunetra Pawar’s candidacy.
Baramati comprises six segments of state assembly constituencies with a mix of political affiliations. The number game suggests challenges for Sule, considering the current distribution of constituencies between ‘Mahayuti’ and ‘Maha Vikas Aghadi.’ Sule’s developmental work and connection with the people may play a role, but the entry of Sunetra Pawar adds complexity to the electoral landscape. The slight edge given to Ajit Pawar’s NCP by the Election Commission in retaining the party name and symbol further intensifies the competition.
