As Shivtare Firm on Baramati Election Bid, Tough Paper Ahead for Ajit Pawar in Baramati

Baramati: Former state minister Vijay Bapu Shivtare’s unwavering resolve to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections from Baramati has sparked a fierce political showdown in the constituency, intensifying tensions within the Ajit Pawar camp. The decision to challenge the Pawar family’s stronghold in Baramati has set the stage for a high-stakes electoral battle, capturing the attention of political observers across the state.

Amidst speculations surrounding Sunetra Pawar’s candidature from the Mahayuti alliance, Shivtare’s announcement to vie for the Lok Sabha seat against the Pawar dynasty has escalated hostilities between the two political factions. As Baramati emerges as a hotly contested battleground, Shivtare’s candidature signifies a significant challenge to the established political order of Ajit Pawar in the constituency.

Undeterred by opposition from the NCP leadership, Shivtare has embarked on a rigorous campaign trail across the Baramati Lok Sabha constituency, engaging with constituents, gathering public opinion, and rallying support from political allies. Despite Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s attempts to mediate, Shivtare remains resolute in his decision to contest the election.

In a statement reaffirming his commitment to the electoral battle, Shivtare emphasised, “In any circumstance, I will contest the upcoming Lok Sabha election. While I may have personally forgiven Ajit Pawar, the people of Baramati have not. There is a significant portion of constituents who seek an alternative to the Pawar family’s dominance.”

Shivtare’s stance has reignited discussions within the Ajit Pawar camp, with calls for his expulsion from the party gaining traction. However, Shivtare remains steadfast in his determination to challenge the status quo, citing widespread discontentment with Ajit Pawar’s leadership style and dictatorial politics in Baramati and Pune.

With tensions mounting on both sides, all eyes are now on Shivtare’s upcoming public meeting scheduled for April 1 at Palkhital Maidan Saswad.