Mumbai, April 3 (NationPress) The political climate in Maharashtra is intensifying with the announcement of by-elections for the Baramati and Rahuri Assembly constituencies. The Congress party has signaled its intention to contest both seats after receiving a positive response from its central leadership.

The vacancies were created due to two unfortunate incidents: the passing of BJP MLA Shivajirao Kardile in Rahuri and the tragic accident that led to the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in Baramati on January 28. The elections are set for April 23, with counting occurring on May 4.

Sunetra Pawar, the NCP candidate and the party's national president, plans to submit her nomination papers on April 6, as the party aims to demonstrate its strength during that occasion in Baramati.

Harshvardhan Sapkal, the President of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC), confirmed that the candidate selection process is underway. "We have received six applications for Baramati, and we are conducting online interviews for potential candidates. For Rahuri, we have four applications, and the selection process is nearing completion. While we are poised for battle, the final approval of candidates will depend on discussions with our Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies. We will reveal our official stance within the next two days," he stated.

In reaction to Congress' plans, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut stressed the importance of a unified decision within the MVA. Raut referred to the “family dharma” concerning Baramati, suggesting that Sharad Pawar’s NCP(SP) might opt out of contesting in honor of the late Ajit Pawar.

"If Sharad Pawar’s party chooses not to contest Baramati out of familial respect, we should not oppose those who wish to run there. However, the MVA must convene to reach a consensus," Raut remarked.

On the topic of Rahuri, Raut noted that Prajakt Tanpure from NCP(SP) previously ran effectively for the seat. He subtly criticized Congress’ national strategy, indicating that "Congress aims to compete everywhere—be it Bihar, West Bengal, or Nagaland—only to grasp their standing post-results. The MVA's foundation is that the strongest party in a particular area should lead the contest there."

Tanpure has expressed interest in contesting under the NCP(SP) banner with MVA support, though he mentioned that the party has yet to make a definitive decision.

Political analysts believe that Congress pushing for these constituencies complicates the internal dynamics of the MVA. The BJP has already positioned Akshay Kardile (son of the deceased Shivajirao Kardile) as its candidate in Rahuri, testing the MVA's ability to maintain a cohesive front in the upcoming days.

Currently, MVA leadership is expected to hold a crucial meeting to avoid any "friendly competitions" that could inadvertently aid the Mahayuti alliance.