As Maharashtra heads into the 2024 Assembly elections, Baramati has become the focal point of an emotional and intense political battle within the Pawar family. Yugendra Pawar, who is challenging his uncle and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in Baramati, urged that family matters, especially involving his grandmother, should be kept separate from politics.
The current rift dates back to Ajit Pawar’s controversial split from his uncle, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) founder Sharad Pawar. Since then, both leaders have been at odds, with Sharad Pawar supporting Yugendra, his grandnephew, as a candidate from Baramati. The decision came despite Ajit Pawar’s mother, Ashatai Pawar, advising that no family member should contest against her son, who holds a traditional stronghold in Baramati.
During a rally on Monday, Ajit Pawar delivered an emotional speech, reflecting on his past mistakes and the rift that has divided his family politically. “I once erred by fielding my wife, Sunetra, against my cousin Supriya Sule during the Lok Sabha polls. This time, my mother advised that no one should oppose me, yet my uncle has made the same mistake, fielding Yugendra against me,” Ajit remarked, referencing Sharad Pawar’s decision.
Yugendra, responding to his uncle’s remarks in an ANI interview on Tuesday, emphasized the importance of keeping his grandmother, Ashatai Pawar, away from political disputes. “His mother is my grandmother, and I have a special bond with her,” Yugendra stated. “I think it’s wrong to involve her in our politics. My respect and feelings for her shouldn’t be mixed with politics.”
Yugendra Pawar Confident of Victory with Sharad Pawar’s Support
Yugendra, who is the son of Ajit Pawar’s elder brother Shrinivas, expressed optimism about his chances in Baramati, citing the influence and support of Sharad Pawar. “Each time, uncle (Ajit Pawar) has won from Baramati due to Pawar Saheb’s backing. This time, I have Pawar Saheb’s support, and the people of Baramati have always stood by their leader, Sharad Pawar,” Yugendra added confidently.
The Baramati constituency, a Pawar family stronghold, has become symbolic of the ideological and political divide within the family, making it one of the most closely watched battles in Maharashtra’s assembly elections. As the polling day draws near, both sides continue to appeal to their shared legacy, with voters left to decide which Pawar faction best represents the future of Baramati.