A video capturing a playful exchange between Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and his nephew, Karjat-Jamkhed MLA Rohit Pawar, has gone viral. The light-hearted banter took place during a recent event in Karad, showcasing the familial bond amidst the high-stakes political scenario.
In the clip, Ajit Pawar, who also serves as the NCP chief, humorously teased Rohit, saying, “You got lucky this time! If I had held a rally in your constituency, the results would’ve been different.” Rohit, who respectfully touched his uncle’s feet, received warm congratulations from Ajit for his hard-fought victory in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly Elections.
A Narrow Victory in Karjat-Jamkhed
Rohit Pawar’s win was nothing short of dramatic. He edged out BJP veteran Ram Shinde by a razor-thin margin of 1,243 votes. Rohit garnered 1,27,676 votes, while Shinde received 1,26,433. An independent candidate, Rohit Chandrakant, secured 3,489 votes. The tight contest kept everyone on edge, with early reports hinting at a possible loss for Rohit. However, a recount confirmed his victory, solidifying his place in the assembly for another term.
This election saw 11 candidates vying for the Karjat-Jamkhed seat, making it one of the most fiercely contested battles in the region.
Breaking a BJP Stronghold
Historically, Karjat-Jamkhed was a BJP bastion, with the party holding the seat for five consecutive terms before Rohit Pawar’s entry in 2019. BJP leaders Sadasiv Lokhande and Ram Shinde dominated the constituency from 1995 to 2014. Rohit’s 2019 win disrupted this trend, signaling a significant political shift. His 2024 victory reaffirmed his stronghold, albeit by a slimmer margin.
A Legacy of Political Excellence
Rohit Pawar represents the third generation of a political dynasty. He is the grandson of Dinkarrao Govindrao Pawar, elder brother to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar. Rohit’s political career reflects the Pawar family’s enduring influence in Maharashtra politics. Meanwhile, his opponent, Ram Shinde, brought considerable experience to the race, having served as Maharashtra’s Water Conservation Minister and a Member of the Legislative Council.
Viral Banter Adds a Light Touch
The viral video of Ajit Pawar’s humorous remarks has drawn attention not only for its levity but also for its timing amid a tense political climate. Ajit’s quip, combined with his praise for Rohit’s perseverance, underscores the close-knit ties within the Pawar family, even as they navigate the challenges of Maharashtra’s dynamic political landscape.