Maharashtra Assembly polls: Baramati has always picked me, says Sharad Pawar as grand-nephew Yugendra files nomination

Following family tradition, Yugendra sought blessings at a temple in Baramati before filing his nomination.

“I have full confidence in the people of Baramati who have been giving me strength in state politics. It started in 1965 and is going on till now. I contested so many elections from here… initially, I campaigned for myself but later on, the responsibility of my campaigning was done by citizens. I have full confidence in Baramati citizens that in this election as well they will ensure the win of the MVA candidate Yugendra with a big margin,” Sharad Pawar said, adding that nobody understands the Baramati voter better than he does.

“Everyone contesting an election does so to win… no one does it to lose,” Sharad Pawar said.

On the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi allies filing nominations in the same constituencies in some seats, Sharad Pawar said there was consensus on most seats and discussions were going on in a few seats so it was decided that nominations should be filed in the undecided seats. The candidature can be withdrawn after a final decision is taken, he added.

Sule, who also accompanied Yugendra, said that Baramati’s voters have always stood by the NCP (SP) chief. “Baramati is always associated with Sharad Pawar everywhere,” she said.

“The voters of Baramati have stood with Sharad Pawarsaheb for the last 55 years. I want them to bless me as well as I will always work for them. It is a big day in my life as I am contesting an election and Pawar saheb accompanied me,” Yugendra said, calling Sharad Pawar his “guru, guide, and role model”.

“I am not thinking of how big the challenge before me is… I only want to be with Sharad Pawar. I only know that he is standing behind me,” Yugendra said.

Seven-time sitting MLA Ajit Pawar will also file his nomination on Monday.

Seven-time sitting MLA Ajit Pawar will also file his nomination on Monday.