A hint has emerged suggesting Ajit Pawar's inclination towards fielding a candidate against his cousin and sitting MP, Supriya Sule, in the constituency of Baramati, Maharashtra. This speculation gained momentum after a vehicle equipped with an audiovisual public address system began traversing the streets of Baramati, a region long associated with the political dominance of the Pawar family, led by Sharad Pawar.
The presence of posters featuring Sunetra Pawar, Ajit Pawar's wife, alongside his own image further fueled conjecture surrounding her potential candidacy in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Ajit Pawar, in a statement made on Friday, alluded to the possibility of fielding a candidate against Supriya Sule, advocating for the selection of a political newcomer who could dedicate themselves to the betterment of future generations.
The emergence of Sunetra Pawar's posters across the constituency underscores the likelihood of a familial showdown within the Pawar clan during the electoral contest in Baramati. Despite her relatively nascent foray into politics, Sunetra Pawar is recognized for her extensive social activism within Baramati, notably through her involvement in the Environmental Forum of India, an NGO dedicated to environmental causes.
Additionally, Sunetra Pawar's endeavors extend to the promotion of organic farming and the advocacy for eco-friendly practices, as evidenced by her contributions to initiatives such as the establishment of eco-villages. Her involvement in educational endeavors, such as serving as a trustee of Vidya Pratishthan, further underscores her commitment to holistic community development.
Reports indicate that Sunetra Pawar has initiated a publicity campaign within the Baramati constituency, engaging with local leaders and stakeholders. Notably, she recently visited Kanchan Kul, a BJP candidate who contested against Supriya Sule in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.
The historical significance of Baramati as a stronghold of the Pawar family cannot be overstated, with Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar having maintained a longstanding political presence in the region. Sharad Pawar's illustrious political career, spanning several terms as both a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) and a Member of Parliament (MP), underscores the familial legacy within Baramati.
Supriya Sule's consecutive victories in the Baramati Lok Sabha seat since 2009 further underscore the entrenched political dynamics within the region. Therefore, should Ajit Pawar proceed with fielding his wife as a candidate against Supriya Sule, it is poised to introduce an intriguing dimension of familial rivalry, encapsulating what could be termed a "Pawarplay" in the electoral arena of Baramati, situated within Pune district.
