Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 5: Leaders of the opposition alliance in Maharashtra are holding consultations over the upcoming by-elections in Rahuri and Baramati, with indications that the Baramati contest may not be uncontested.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut said that Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray recently spoke over the phone regarding the Rahuri bypoll. He added that discussions have also been held with NCP leader Jayant Patil, while talks with Congress leaders are ongoing.

Raut clarified that Rahuri is a seat belonging to the NCP faction led by Sharad Pawar, and hence the final decision on candidature will be taken by that party. “We have three aspirants from our side, but the decision will be taken collectively as part of the Mahavikas Aghadi,” he said, referring to the opposition alliance.

He noted that former MLA Prajakt Tanpure had earlier contested from the constituency on an NCP ticket, and the party would be given the first opportunity to field a candidate, followed by the Congress.

Meanwhile, efforts are reportedly being made by the ruling alliance to ensure that the Baramati bypoll is held unopposed. Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar is said to have reached out to Uddhav Thackeray seeking support, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also appealed for an uncontested election.

However, the Indian National Congress appears firm on contesting the Baramati bypoll. State Congress president Harshvardhan Sapkal said the party would support a candidate from Sharad Pawar’s faction if fielded. Otherwise, Congress would contest the seat independently.

Sapkal also questioned the demand for an uncontested election, stating that even in the past, elections were held when family members of deceased leaders entered the fray.

Baramati Lok Sabha and Assembly seats have traditionally been held by Sharad Pawar’s faction within the alliance, and a final decision on candidature is awaited.