Maharashtra CM Advocates for Consensus in Upcoming By-Elections
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared on Sunday that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively pursuing strategies to facilitate unopposed by-elections for the Baramati and Rahuri assembly constituencies. Speaking after attending the 39th convocation ceremony at Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth in Rahuri, located within Ahilyanagar district, Fadnavis emphasized his belief that both seats should ideally be filled without electoral contests.
Fadnavis Outlines BJP's Electoral Strategy
"I firmly believe elections should be conducted unopposed in both these assembly seats," stated Fadnavis. "Our objective is to build a consensus among all political parties to support a single candidate. However, if elections become unavoidable, we are fully prepared to contest vigorously." This announcement came shortly before the Election Commission of India officially confirmed the bypoll dates, setting April 23 as the day for voting in both Baramati and Rahuri.
Background on the Vacant Seats
The Baramati assembly seat became vacant following the tragic demise of former deputy chief minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislator Ajit Pawar on January 28. Baramati had been Ajit Pawar's stronghold, where he secured victory with record margins in eight consecutive elections. The 2024 assembly polls featured a high-profile Pawar family rivalry, with Ajit Pawar defeating his nephew Yugendra by over one lakh votes, amidst a backdrop of familial and political divisions within the NCP.
In contrast, the Rahuri seat fell vacant after the passing of BJP MLA Shivaji Kardile on October 17 last year. This constituency has historically witnessed intense competition between the Kardile family and the Tanpure family from the NCP. Kardile initially won the seat in 2009 and 2014 but faced defeat in the 2019 assembly polls against Prajakt Tanpure of the then-undivided NCP. He later reclaimed the seat by defeating Tanpure in the 2024 elections.
Potential Unopposed Victory in Baramati
Sunetra Pawar, who has been appointed as deputy chief minister, is set to be the NCP's candidate for the Baramati assembly bypoll. Her election appears highly likely to proceed unopposed, as Supriya Sule, working president of NCP (SP), has publicly announced that her party will not field any candidates for this seat. Given the strong emotional sentiments surrounding Ajit Pawar's legacy, other political parties are also expected to refrain from nominating contenders, potentially leading to a consensus-driven outcome.
Rahuri's Electoral Dynamics
Meanwhile, in Rahuri, BJP sources from Ahilyanagar indicate expectations that the by-election could also be held unopposed. The party has not yet finalized its candidate for this seat, but internal discussions suggest a focus on achieving broad agreement to avoid a contested poll. The historical rivalry between the Kardile and Tanpure families adds complexity, yet there is optimism within BJP circles about securing a peaceful resolution.
Fadnavis Addresses Mumbai Mayor Controversy
In a separate development, Chief Minister Fadnavis addressed allegations against Mumbai mayor Ritu Tawde regarding her use of an official vehicle with a beacon. "There was no beacon on the car," clarified Fadnavis. "It merely had a red light on the bonnet. The mayor is well-versed in the regulations, and I believe she is being unfairly targeted in this matter." This statement aimed to downplay the controversy, reinforcing support for the mayor amidst scrutiny.
The upcoming by-elections in Baramati and Rahuri are poised to be significant tests of political unity and strategy in Maharashtra. With Fadnavis leading efforts for consensus, the outcomes could set precedents for future electoral processes in the state, highlighting the BJP's approach to navigating complex political landscapes while honoring legacies and fostering cooperation.
