Rohit Pawar Appeals to Voters to Uphold Ajit Pawar's Ideology in Rescheduled ZP Polls
In a poignant appeal following the tragic demise of senior leader Ajit Pawar, his nephew and NCP(SP) leader Rohit Pawar has urged voters to support the late deputy chief minister's ideology in the upcoming Zila Parishad and Panchayat Samiti elections. The elections, originally scheduled for February 5, were postponed after Ajit Pawar's death and are now set for February 7, with results to be declared on February 9.
Campaign Suspended in Wake of Tragedy
The NCP-NCP(SP) alliance has cancelled its election campaign for these crucial rural body polls as a mark of respect. Rohit Pawar emphasized that this is an appropriate time for voters to cooperate by embracing Ajit Pawar's vision and carrying forward his legacy. "It will be a true homage to the deceased leader by carrying forward his legacy of thoughts," he stated in a tweet, referencing how Ajit Pawar was traveling for campaign purposes when his plane crashed.
Ajit Pawar's Final Appeal Captured on Video
Prior to his passing, Ajit Pawar recorded a video on January 24 at his official residence in Mumbai, appealing directly to voters. In the video, he highlighted the NCP's commitment to rural development and urged support for party candidates to enable continued progress using modern technology for civic services. NCP leader Anand Paranjpe confirmed the authenticity of this recording, noting it was intended for both voters and media.
Strategic Alliance and Campaign Adjustments
The pre-poll alliance between NCP and NCP(SP) was forged at Ajit Pawar's insistence to maintain political influence in Maharashtra's rural areas. Both parties decided to contest under the clock symbol to prevent voter confusion amid stiff competition from the BJP. With traditional campaigning suspended, candidates are now distributing pamphlets door-to-door rather than holding rallies or meetings.
This respectful approach has been mirrored across party lines. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced he would not participate in BJP campaign activities, while the BJP also decided against celebrating recent victories in municipal corporation elections, including in Pune where city BJP chief Dheeraj Ghate confirmed no festivities for mayoral wins.
Election Context and Political Landscape
The elections cover 12 Zila Parishads and Panchayat Samitis, representing significant political stakes in Maharashtra's rural governance. Ajit Pawar had personally led the alliance's campaign efforts before his untimely death, aiming to consolidate the NCP's position against BJP challenges. The postponement and subdued campaigning reflect the profound impact of his loss on the political establishment.
As voters prepare to cast their ballots, Rohit Pawar's appeal frames the election as both a political choice and a tribute to a leader whose vision for rural development remains central to the alliance's platform.
