In a surprising twist, a rickshaw driver named Sharad Ram Pawar has filed his nomination from the Baramati Lok Sabha constituency, where the political landscape is already abuzz with high-voltage drama. This development adds a new dimension to the electoral race, which is witnessing a fierce battle between two Pawars – Sharad Chandra Pawar and Sunetra Pawar.
Sharad Ram Pawar hails from the Beed district and has been residing in Pune for the past 14 years, where he earns his livelihood as an autorickshaw driver. He boasts an association with the Baghtoy Rickshawala Forum, which enjoys support within the local community.
There are whispers among the electorate of Baramati that Sharad Ram Pawar may have been asked to contest as an independent candidate to create confusion among supporters of the Sharad Chandra Pawar faction. This move is speculated to be a ploy to split the votes of the NCP (SP) candidate, Supriya Sule, ultimately benefiting the NDA and NCP candidate, Sunetra Pawar.
Dismissing these speculations, Sharad Ram Pawar has asserted that his decision to contest the election is driven by his desire to advocate for the rights of the working class and members of the rickshaw-driving community. He has already kick-started his campaign in the constituency, relying heavily on his colleagues from the Baghtoy Rickshawala Forum.
When asked about his reasons for choosing the Baramati Lok Sabha seat, Sharad Ram Pawar stated, “Because I am a part of this constituency. The current MP, Supriya tai, has not done much for the working-class people.”
The NCP(SP) faction has expressed its objection to the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) decision to allot the trumpet symbol to the independent candidate, referring to it as ‘Tutari.’ This has caused discontent within the NCP (SP), as the musical instrument in their symbol’s name also translates to ‘Tutari’ in Marathi, potentially creating confusion among voters.
With a total of 38 candidates vying for votes in the Baramati Lok Sabha constituency, the entry of Sharad Ram Pawar has further intensified the electoral battle, adding an unpredictable element to the race.
