Mumbai, April 9 (NationPress) NCP(SP) MLA Rohit Pawar met with the President of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, Harshwardhan Sapkal, on Thursday, requesting the withdrawal of the party's nominee, Akash More, to allow for an unopposed election of NCP candidate and state Deputy Chief Minister, Sunetra Pawar, in the upcoming Baramati by-election on April 23.

This appeal is significant as Thursday marks the final deadline for nomination withdrawals at 3 p.m., with 47 candidates having submitted their nominations for the Baramati by-election.

Following his discussion with Harshwardhan Sapkal, Rohit Pawar informed the media, “I urged the state Congress chief to withdraw their nominee, facilitating an unopposed election for Sunetra Pawar in the Baramati bypoll. This step is essential as the by-election follows the tragic passing of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, and an unopposed election would serve as a tribute to him. The decision lies with the Congress party, and I remain optimistic about their approach. Being a national party, I trust they will decide after due process.”

Additionally, Rohit Pawar highlighted that the Congress party has advocated for the state government to file a First Information Report (FIR) regarding the plane crash that resulted in the death of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on January 28. He mentioned that he has been advocating for this for an extended period, and ultimately, the FIR was filed in Karnataka with assistance from the Congress government there. During their meeting, Rohit Pawar arranged a video call with Congress in-charge Ramesh Chennithala to address the sensitivity surrounding the situation. "Considering the loss of a significant figure like Ajit Dada, it's crucial to approach this election with an emotional perspective as a genuine tribute to him," Rohit Pawar expressed.

“As a family member and a party worker, I have appealed for Congress to retract their nomination,” he added. Rohit Pawar reiterated that Harshvardhan Sapkal mentioned their decision to contest arose from dissatisfaction with the current administration's handling of investigations related to the late leader.

“Congress leaders voiced concerns that if a leader of Ajit Pawar’s stature does not receive prompt justice or a thorough investigation (FIR) into associated matters, the general public cannot expect fairness from the current government and its administration,” he stated.

Previously, Sunetra Pawar had personally contacted Harshvardhan Sapkal on two occasions to seek an unopposed election path; however, the Maharashtra Congress leadership has deferred the final decision to the "High Command" in Delhi. "The decision to contest Baramati was determined at the national level. As a result, any withdrawal discussion must involve the High Command and adhere to their guidance," a Congress source revealed.

In light of recent tensions within political circles following NCP MP Parth Pawar's comments regarding the Congress party's decline, Rohit Pawar expressed regret. "Parth’s statement was inappropriate, and I apologize for it. At this juncture, it is essential for everyone to unite," Rohit Pawar emphasized, underscoring the importance of solidarity among family and political factions during this time of mourning.