The political atmosphere is getting heated regarding the by-elections to be held on Baramati and Rahuri assembly seats of Maharashtra. While earlier there was talk of making these seats unopposed, now the stand of Congress has changed the whole picture. After the statement of Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar, the contest in Baramati seems to be interesting.

Politics intensifies on Sunetra Pawar’s candidature

There is talk of making Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar the candidate from the Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar faction) on Baramati seat. Whereas Supriya Sule had indicated that Sharad Pawar group will not field a candidate on this seat. Congress has objected to this and has clearly said that such a unilateral decision will not be accepted in the alliance.

Vijay Wadettiwar clearly said that if the nationalists (Sharad Pawar group) do not contest the elections, then Congress will consider fielding its own candidates. He says that this decision is against the principles of Mahavikas Aghadi.

He also said that when earlier merger and political decisions were taken, there was no discussion with Congress. In such a situation, it is not right to ignore Congress at the time of elections.

Odds of a triangular contest

Now the possibility of a triangular contest on Baramati seat has increased. On one side, Sunetra Pawar, on the other side, probable Congress candidate and on the third side, OBC leader Laxman Hake has also announced to contest the elections.

Laxman Hake said that Sunetra Pawar should be sent to the Legislative Council instead of the Assembly and a new face should get a chance from Baramati.

Complete schedule of by-elections

The Election Commission has released the complete schedule for Baramati and Rahuri by-elections. Notification will be released on 30 March 2026. The last date for nomination is April 6, while the scrutiny will be held on April 7. Candidates can withdraw their names till 9th ​​April. Voting will take place on April 23 and the results will be declared on May 4. The entire election process will be over by May 6.

Baramati seat is no longer just a by-election but is becoming a big test of the internal politics of the alliance. It is clear from the stand of Congress that the tussle within Mahavikas Aghadi may increase further in the coming days.