How Congress turned Baramati bypoll withdrawal into political capital

In a significant political development, Maharashtra Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal announced the withdrawal of party candidate Akash More from the Baramati Assembly by-election, describing the move as a gesture of respect following the tragic demise of veteran leader Ajit Pawar.

The decision signals a notable shift in the Congress’s stance. Sapkal had earlier criticised the Election Commission as a “B-team” of the BJP, but the party recalibrated after appeals from the Nationalist Congress Party and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Senior NCP leaders, including Sunetra Pawar, Chhagan Bhujbal and Dhananjay Munde, reached out to Congress seeking cooperation to ensure a smooth and respectful transition.

The withdrawal followed a series of backchannel consultations. A key meeting between Sunetra Pawar and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge helped ease tensions. Additionally, Rohit Pawar met Congress leaders to apologise for remarks made earlier by Parth Pawar about the party, a move that helped pave the way for a conciliatory outcome.

By stepping aside, Congress has sought to project itself as upholding Maharashtra’s political traditions and civility, rather than appearing politically cornered. Supriya Sule reinforced this message, highlighting the long-standing relationship between her family and the Congress.

Meanwhile, Jay Pawar expressed gratitude, saying an unopposed election would be the most fitting tribute to his father’s legacy. Although 23 independent candidates remain in the fray, the NCP continues efforts to persuade them to withdraw.

Through this strategic retreat, Congress appears to have strengthened alliance dynamics while maintaining the moral high ground ahead of future electoral contests.