The Congress party has withdrawn its candidate from the Baramati bypoll, paving the way for Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar to be elected unopposed. The decision came after appeals from senior leaders of the NCP (SP), including Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule, who urged Congress to step aside as a gesture of respect following the death of Ajit Pawar earlier this year.
Ajit Pawar, a prominent political figure in Maharashtra and a long-time representative of the Baramati constituency, died in a plane crash in January. His passing created a significant emotional and political moment in the region, given his decades-long association with the seat and his influence in state politics. Shortly after his death, Sunetra Pawar was appointed Deputy Chief Minister, further consolidating the family’s political presence.
Initially, the Congress had fielded Amar More as its candidate, framing the contest as part of a broader ideological battle. Party leaders had expressed concerns about the functioning of the Election Commission, suggesting it was favouring the ruling establishment. However, the party later reconsidered its position, stating that respect for Ajit Pawar’s legacy and his long-standing association with Congress-led governments played a decisive role in the withdrawal.
The move followed both public and behind-the-scenes efforts by NCP leaders. Supriya Sule, who represents Baramati in Parliament, made an emotional appeal, highlighting Ajit Pawar’s political roots in Congress and suggesting that an uncontested election would serve as a fitting tribute to his legacy. Additionally, senior NCP leaders reached out directly to Congress leadership, and Sunetra Pawar herself reportedly held discussions with party president Mallikarjun Kharge.
With Congress stepping back, the Baramati bypoll, scheduled for April 23, is now set to conclude without a contest. The development ensures that both the Baramati assembly seat and the parliamentary constituency remain under the control of the Pawar family, reinforcing their longstanding political dominance in the region.
