Baramati Votes with Heavy Hearts After Ajit Pawar’s Passing

Ankit Salvi/Mumbai

Voting for the Baramati Assembly by-election is underway today, with a significant voter turnout reported since the early hours. 
The bypoll was necessitated following the demise of senior leader and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, creating an emotional backdrop for the contest.

Sunetra Pawar, who is contesting the seat, began her day by visiting Ajit Pawar’s memorial at Vidya Pratishthan to pay her respects before heading to cast her vote. She exercised her franchise at a polling booth in Katewadi and later interacted with the media.

Speaking to reporters, Sunetra Pawar said that voters in Baramati have been stepping out in large numbers since morning. She expressed confidence that the electorate would honour Ajit Pawar’s years of contribution through their participation in the democratic process.

During the interaction, she was asked about the absence of both Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar during the polling. The question left her visibly emotional. She acknowledged that the by-election is deeply emotional for everyone involved but emphasized that the people of Baramati have taken ownership of the election.

Sunetra Pawar also mentioned that Ajit Pawar’s 89-year-old mother cast her vote from home due to her age. “I sought her blessings before coming to vote,” she said.

Reflecting on the personal loss, she added that she is not accustomed to doing anything without Ajit Pawar, 
affectionately referred to as “Dada,” but accepted that he is no longer present. She urged voters to participate in large numbers.

Meanwhile, Parth Pawar has moved to the Rajya Sabha, filling the vacancy left by Sunetra Pawar.

The focus now shifts to the counting of votes, with political observers keenly watching the margin by which Sunetra Pawar may secure victory in this emotionally charged by-election.