The upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra are heating up, with Baramati emerging as a battleground for the state's pride. Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena (UBT) predicted a significant victory for the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), estimating 30-35 seats out of the total 48 in the state.
Raut emphasised the significance of the Baramati contest, framing it as a matter of Maharashtra's honour. The contest in Baramati, where polling is scheduled for May 7, pits Supriya Sule of NCP (SP) against her sister-in-law Sunetra Pawar, wife of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.
Accusing Ajit Pawar of political manoeuvring to safeguard his position, Raut asserted that support for Supriya Sule reflects the unity of Maharashtra. He criticised Ajit Pawar's track record, suggesting that his wife's electoral prospects signal a decline in his influence.
Raut expressed confidence in a potential shift in government post-elections, highlighting Rahul Gandhi's traction nationally. Addressing claims made by CM Shinde regarding Shiv Sena's stance towards Congress, Raut defended the party's historical relationship with Indira Gandhi while casting doubt on Shinde's loyalty.
Drawing attention to pending candidate announcements in various constituencies, Raut underscored the MVA's projected success. However, he criticised Ajit Pawar's alleged intimidation tactics in Baramati, questioning the necessity for such measures if victory is assured.
Raut labelled the faction led by CM Shinde as "Shiv Sena (Fadnavis) group," accusing it of aligning with forces detrimental to Maharashtra's interests.
Regarding BJP's candidate selection, particularly Ujjwal Nikam in Mumbai North Central, Raut suggested internal reluctance within BJP ranks and expressed confidence in MVA's prospects in the constituency.
As Maharashtra braces for the upcoming polls, the contest in Baramati encapsulates the broader political dynamics shaping the state's electoral landscape.
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