Mumbai: A compelling face-off is imminent in Baramati, where two opposing contingents of the Nationalist Congress Party are hinging their strategies on the strength of women to claim the illustrious Lok Sabha seat. Sunetra Pawar of the NCP and Supriya Sule of NCP (SP), erstwhile allies united by familial ties but now estranged by political division, are vying for supremacy.
Supriya Sule, the current sitting MP and progeny of Sharad Pawar, will vie under the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) banner led by her father. Conversely, Ajit Pawar, intent on affirming his political prowess, has put forth his spouse, Sunetra Pawar, as his party’s contender.
Baramati holds sway as one of the most closely watched constituencies nationwide, a domain once dominated by NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar until health concerns and age pushed him to retire from active campaigning. The scales appear to tip in favor of Sharad Pawar’s daughter, marking the stage for a contest of note.
Ajit Pawar’s wife, Sunetra Pawar, acknowledges the difficulty in standing against her sister-in-law Supriya Sule. In a comprehensive letter to the electorate, she recognized the unique challenge of engaging in the 2024 Lok Sabha election, particularly given the familial ties between the contenders.
While many constituencies in Maharashtra have become the territory of entrenched local dynasties over time, Baramati’s prominence has soared due to its status as a stronghold of the Pawar family. The Pawar lineage and the NCP led by Sharad Pawar have exerted control over the Baramati Lok Sabha and corresponding Vidhan Sabha constituencies for decades.
However, this time, the conflict takes on a new complexion. Following a schism within the NCP instigated by the patriarch’s nephew and current Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in July 2023, Baramati Lok Sabha constituency faces an unprecedented confrontation.
Who is Sunetra Pawar?
Sunetra Pawar, recognized as Vahini (elder sister) by the locals, hails from the politically powerful Patil lineage in Dharashiv, Marathwada. Although she is an active board member in several Pawar family-led organizations, her limited experience in politics contrasts with her husband Ajit Pawar’s extensive political background, which may benefit her campaign.
What are the prospects of Sunetra’s victory?
Supriya leans on her father’s legacy and the Pawar family’s regional clout, while Sunetra aims to capitalize on the foundation laid by her husband, Ajit Pawar. Though Sharad Pawar is synonymous with Baramati, Ajit Pawar has been the architect behind the development of the constituency into a family bastion.
“As a senior family member, this contest does not sit comfortably with me, but a wider perspective requires considering everyone’s interests. Thus, I find myself entering the parliamentary contest. Initially, reconciling with competing against my family members was challenging. My husband adopted a novel political stance, not only his but also embraced by the party’s senior leaders and closely involved members,” she stated.
According to Sunetra, the principles of developmental politics have been championed by the Pawar family. Her letter was issued prior to filing nominations on April 18, with the elections set for May 7.
Sunetra supports husband’s decision
Sunetra Pawar ardently endorses her husband’s choice to distance himself from his uncle and NCP founder Sharad Pawar. She explained that the decision was endorsed by countless party workers, the majority of legislators, and MPs from Maharashtra.
“This decision was not an act of defiance against Saheb (Sharad Pawar) but aligned with the party’s earlier stance. Ajit Pawar made his decision consistent with the tenets of development,” she remarked.
“Contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Baramati presents a rigorous challenge, yet I possess the same fortitude that surfaces in any ordinary woman during such times,” Sunetra declared.
She emphasized that this election offers an avenue to expand her community work, adhering to her husband’s transparent and direct approach to politics. She appealed emotionally to voters for the grand vision of a developed India and Baramati.
“This Lok Sabha election symbolizes progress for me. It signifies contributing to the nation’s advancement and fulfilling the aspirations of my fellow citizens. Narendra Modi has propelled India’s stature internationally. Let us partake in India’s journey towards superpower status by providing Narendra Modiji a third term as Prime Minister,” she expressed.
Sunetra concluded with confidence that the people of Baramati would exhibit their faith and affection for Narendra Modi when casting their votes in the approaching Lok Sabha elections.