Nagpur: Terming Sunetra Pawar as political successor to Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Monday made an emotional appeal for an unopposed election in Baramati, urging opposition parties — particularly the Congress — to stay out of the contest.Speaking at a public meeting held during the filing of Pawar’s nomination as the Mahayuti candidate, Bawankule said the constituency was witnessing a moment shaped by both legacy and sentiment. “The void left by Ajitdada is felt at every step,” he said, adding, “to fulfil his dreams and commitments, his shadow — and now Baramati’s ‘Mauli’ — Sunetra Vahini is standing firmly.”The event was attended by dyCM Eknath Shinde, minister Makarand Patil and senior leaders including NCP (Ajit) working president Praful Patel and state chief Sunil Tatkare.Bawankule described Ajit Pawar as a leader whose influence extended across Maharashtra. “From Gadchiroli to Amravati, there is no corner untouched by his work. Every drop of water that reached a farmer’s field stands testimony to his contribution,” he said.Recalling his 32-year relationship with the late leader, Bawankule said Sunetra Pawar stepped forward at a time of collective grief. “When the entire state was mourning, she accepted the responsibility for 14 crore people and to keep his dreams alive,” he said. In a direct message to the Congress, Bawankule urged restraint. “Maharashtra has a political culture and values. Ajitdada spent 80% of his political life working with Congress leaders. I request them not to disrespect his memory by contesting this seat,” he said. “There is a sentiment among 14 crore people that this election should be unopposed.”He warned that ignoring public sentiment could have electoral consequences. “If you disregard this sentiment, Baramati will deliver a defeat the likes of which history has not seen,” he said. Expressing confidence in Sunetra Pawar’s victory, Bawankule said that under the leadership of CM Devendra Fadnavis and Shinde, the outcome in Baramati would be “one of the biggest victories in Maharashtra’s history.”
