The ongoing election campaign in the Baramati Lok Sabha constituency has been marred by a new controversy surrounding the allocation of election symbols. An independent candidate, Sohail Shah Sheikh, has been allocated the ‘Trumpet’ symbol, which is identical in name to the Marathi version of NCP (SP)’s symbol. NCP (SP) has vehemently objected to this decision, filing an application with the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Tuesday. However, the Returning Officer has confirmed the symbol and name for the independent candidate.
NCP (SP) has been assigned the ‘Man Blowing Turha’ symbol, known as ‘Tutari’ in Marathi. The independent candidate has received the ‘Trumpet’ symbol, which is also referred to as ‘Tutari’ in Marathi, leading to confusion among voters.
A total of 38 candidates were finalized for the Baramati Lok Sabha constituency on Monday after eight of the initial 46 candidates withdrew their nominations. The Returning Officer subsequently allocated symbols and names to the independent candidates from a list provided by the ECI, taking into account their preferences.
Sheikh expressed his optimism about the symbol’s impact on his chances of winning the election. However, NCP (SP) City Unit President Prashant Jagtap strongly objected to the symbol allocation, claiming that it creates confusion for voters. He emphasized the challenges faced by NCP (SP) in reaching out to voters with their new symbol in the remaining short period before the election.
The NCP (SP) is facing a formidable challenge in Baramati, where incumbent MP Supriya Sule, daughter of Sharad Pawar, is being contested by Sunetra Pawar, wife of Ajit Pawar from NCP. The close contest and family feud have garnered national attention, making this election a pivotal moment for both parties.
