The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) in Maharashtra on Thursday said that it was starting a special drain cleaning drive alongside its ongoing cleanliness campaign ahead of the arrival of the monsoon season. An official statement said that a large-scale cleanliness campaign is underway in Thane, and the civic body will begin drain cleaning work from Friday, April 10, as part of efforts to improve sanitation across the city. It said that the campaign is being carried out under the vision of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, with leadership of Thane Mayor Sharmila Pimpalolkar and under the guidance from Thane Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao. Cleanliness drives in key Thane areas The officials said that on Friday morning, a cleanliness drive will be conducted at the Indiranagar Naka in Lokmanya Savarkar Nagar ward and it will begin at 8 am. A drive will also be launched near Darul Falah Masjid area in Mumbra area in Thane district at 9:30 am. Local representatives and civic officials are expected to take part in these activities, they said. Drain cleaning work to begin in Mumbra The statement said that following the cleanliness drives, the drain cleaning work will be formally launched at 10 am at Amrut Nagar Nala in the Mumbra ward area. Senior civic officials, including the mayor and municipal commissioner, will be present at the event. Focus on citywide sanitation According to Deputy Commissioner of Solid Waste Management Madhukar Bodke, the initiative aims to improve overall cleanliness and ensure proper drainage ahead of the monsoon season. BMC accelerates Mithi River desilting Meanwhile, the BMC has intensified desilting operations across the Mithi River and key drainage networks, with officials setting a firm deadline of May 31, 2026, to complete the work ahead of the monsoon. Additional Municipal Commissioner (Projects) Abhijit Bangar has directed officials to accelerate desilting work across major and minor drains, particularly at waterlogging-prone locations. He emphasized the need for structured planning, including strict timelines for each drain, with start and completion schedules to be made publicly accessible via a digital dashboard. Daily targets have also been mandated to ensure timely completion, while contractors have been instructed to provide real-time updates on machinery deployment as per tender conditions. Field Inspections Across Key Locations Bangar conducted an on-ground inspection on April 3, reviewing ongoing desilting works in the Mithi River and eastern suburbs. Under a three-package plan, work has commenced at five locations along the river. Key sites inspected included stretches near the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority office, and areas near a prominent international school in the vicinity. In addition, inspections were carried out at Boundary Nala in Mulund and Somaiya Nala in Ghatkopar, where officials were directed to prioritise flood-prone zones and coordinate closely with local representatives.
09 April,2026 07:18 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentThe Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to set up a centralised “war room” to strengthen monitoring of cleanliness operations across the city, as part of efforts to improve on-ground implementation. Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide has directed officials to ensure stricter supervision, including regular field visits by ward-level administrators. The directions were issued during a review meeting of the Solid Waste Management (SWM) department held at the civic headquarters on April 9. Senior officials, including Deputy Commissioners Prashant Gaikwad and Kiran Dighavkar, were present. According to officials, the proposed war room will function as a central control system to track cleanliness-related work across Mumbai, enabling quicker response and better coordination between departments. Focus on consistent execution and micro-planning Bhide emphasised that cleanliness must be treated as an ongoing process rather than a one-time exercise. She called for “micro-planning” of road cleaning, particularly on high-traffic stretches such as coastal roads and major highways, where heavy vehicular movement poses challenges. To address this, the BMC is considering the deployment of mechanised cleaning systems using specialised vehicles designed for urban conditions. Officials have been asked to explore collaborations with reputed institutions to develop customised solutions suited to Mumbai’s requirements. The commissioner also suggested that select high-footfall locations be developed as “model clean areas” to set benchmarks, alongside public awareness efforts to encourage citizens to maintain hygiene standards. Electric vehicles and waste management upgrades The civic body highlighted its increasing reliance on electric vehicles for waste collection. Around 10 per cent of the BMC’s solid waste collection fleet now comprises electric vehicles, making it one of the first municipal corporations in India to deploy high-capacity e-vehicles at this scale. Mumbai currently generates approximately 7,200 metric tonnes of solid waste every day, which is processed and disposed of using scientific methods, officials said. Under a revised service-based contract system, the BMC has streamlined its fleet operations. While the earlier system deployed 1,196 vehicles, improved capacity in the new fleet has reduced the number to 988, officials added. The vehicles have also been given a new colour scheme for easier identification. Segregation efforts and citizen participation The city currently has 46 dry waste segregation centres, supported by 94 dedicated vehicles operating round-the-clock. In addition, the BMC has rolled out a specialised service for the collection of domestic sanitary waste, which is being used by a growing number of establishments. Officials also reiterated the importance of public participation in maintaining cleanliness. The civic body has urged residents and businesses to actively take part in initiatives such as the ‘Mumbai Clean League’, aimed at encouraging community involvement in sanitation efforts.
09 April,2026 06:39 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe vision laid out at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 at Davos is now gaining traction on the ground. As per the official statement, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority convened a high-level meeting to accelerate the proposed ‘Innovation City’ project in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The meeting on Thursday was chaired by Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay Mukherjee, which focused on translating the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed earlier this year into a structured implementation roadmap. Key focus areas The discussions were built upon the MoU signed at Davos 2026 between MMRDA, the Tata Group, and the Department of Industries, Government of Maharashtra. However, the key focus areas included defining the overall vision and strategic direction of the Innovation City, outlining an execution roadmap, identifying potential partnerships, and setting timelines for phased implementation. Officials further indicated that there is strong alignment among stakeholders, paving the way for a time-bound rollout of the ambitious project. The proposed Innovation City is envisioned as a world-class ecosystem that will integrate technology, research, and entrepreneurship within the MMR. Project focuses on boosting Maharashtra’s development Once operational, the project is expected to significantly boost Maharashtra’s positioning as a global hub for innovation and emerging technologies, while also attracting investments, fostering startups, and generating employment opportunities across sectors. With initial groundwork now underway, authorities are expected to move towards detailed planning and on-ground execution in the coming months, marking a shift from policy intent to tangible progress. Among those present were Chief Advisor to the Chief Minister of Maharashtra Kaustubh Dhavse, Sucharita Choudhury, and Ritesh Mandot, along with senior officials from the authority and representatives of the Tata Group.
09 April,2026 06:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has announced a list of 40 star campaigners for the upcoming bye-elections in the Baramati and Rahuri Assembly constituencies in Maharashtra, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis leading the lineup. The list has been formally submitted to the Election Commission as part of the party’s preparations for the bypoll campaign. Senior leadership to spearhead campaign The BJP’s campaign will feature a mix of senior national and state leaders. Union minister Nitin Gadkari and party national general secretary Shiv Prakash are among the prominent names expected to campaign in the two constituencies. State BJP president Ravindra Chavan and senior leaders such as Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Vinod Tawde and Ashok Chavan are also part of the campaign team. Focus on key regional and influential leaders Several prominent faces from Maharashtra politics have been included, indicating the party’s attempt to mobilise support across regions. These include leaders such as Sudhir Mungantiwar, Chandrakant Patil, Raosaheb Danve and Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil. Other notable names on the list include Pankaja Munde, Girish Mahajan, Ganesh Naik, Udayanraje Bhosale and Nitesh Rane. Full list of star campaigners The complete list of BJP star campaigners for the Baramati (201) and Rahuri (223) Assembly bye-elections includes: Devendra Fadnavis, Ravindra Chavan, Nitin Gadkari, Shiv Prakash, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Vinod Tawde, Ashok Chavan, Sudhir Mungantiwar, Chandrakant (Dada) Patil, Raosaheb Danve Patil, Ram Shinde, Ashish Shelar, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Murlidhar Mohol, Pankaja Munde, Girish Mahajan, Ganesh Naik, Udayanraje Bhosale, Jaykumar Rawal, Shivendraraje Bhosale, Nitesh Rane, Jaykumar Gore, Atul Save, Meghana Bordikar, Ashok Uike, Chitra Wagh, Pravin Darekar, Bhagwat Karad, Gopichand Padalkar, Sanjay Kute, Dhananjay Mahadik, Mayatai Inamdar, Bharati Pawar, Ramrao Wadkute, Sujay Vikhe Patil, Yogesh Tilekar, Amit Gorkhe, Monika Rajale, Rahul Kul and Idris Multani. Bye-elections expected to draw attention The Baramati and Rahuri bye-elections are expected to witness a high-profile contest, with the BJP deploying a broad spectrum of leaders to strengthen its campaign outreach and voter engagement across both constituencies. The bypoll is scheduled to be held on April 23 and Thursday is the last day of withdrawal of nomination. Ajit Pawar had represented the Baramati assembly constituency, the Pawar family's home turf, eight times.
09 April,2026 06:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) has rolled out a set of discounted travel passes for commuters on the Colaba–Bandra–SEEPZ Metro 3 corridor, also known as the Aqua Line. The move, which came into effect on April 8, is aimed at making metro travel more affordable while promoting the use of digital, contactless ticketing systems. Discounts target students and visitors Under the new fare structure, students up to Class 12 are eligible for a 25 per cent discount on both 45-trip and 60-trip passes. These passes will remain valid for 30 days from the date of activation. In addition, the MMRCL has introduced tourist passes designed for short-term visitors seeking unlimited travel. A one-business-day pass is priced at Rs 280, while a three-business-day pass costs Rs 700. These passes are expected to benefit domestic and international tourists exploring key parts of Mumbai along the Mumbai Metro Aqua Line 3 corridor. Digital-only access via NCMC The discounted passes are available exclusively through the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), reinforcing the corporation’s push toward a fully digital commuting ecosystem. Commuters using the NCMC can access these offers seamlessly, without the need for paper tickets or tokens. The MMRCL has also highlighted that similar benefits are integrated with its official mobile platform, the MetroConnect3 app, which supports digital ticketing and pass management. Existing benefits continue Alongside the newly introduced concessions, existing discounts on regular trip passes remain in place. Commuters can avail a 10 per cent discount on 45-trip passes and a 15 per cent discount on 60-trip passes. Special provisions also continue for Divyangjan (persons with disabilities), who are eligible for a 25 per cent discount on both 45-trip and 60-trip passes, aligning with the broader goal of inclusive public transport. Push for affordable and seamless mobility Officials indicated that the initiative is part of a larger effort to encourage more commuters to shift towards metro travel while reducing dependency on cash-based systems. By combining discounted pricing with digital accessibility, the Mumbai Metro Aqua Line 3 corridor aims to improve convenience for daily passengers as well as occasional users. The introduction of targeted fare incentives is likely to boost ridership while supporting the city’s transition to a more efficient and modern public transport network. The recently inaugurated Mumbai Metro Line 3, also known as the Aqua Line, has been registering a strong ridership performance. The increasing number of ridership throughout the month indicates a growing commuter confidence and the rising popularity of the city’s underground metro system. The Mumbai Metro Aqua Line 3 project spans approximately 33.5 kilometres with 27 stations. This project represents one of the largest urban transport infrastructure developments in Mumbai’s history.
09 April,2026 05:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentCentral Railway on Thursday said that it will operate a night block between Titwala and Vasind on April 10 due to which several trains would be affected. An official statement said that the Mumbai division of Central Railway will carry out a special traffic and power block between Titwala and Vasind stations on the night of April 10-11, 2026 to support infrastructure upgrades. The block was being undertaken to remove infringements and carry out overhead equipment (OHE) work at Titwala and Khadavli stations. The work is part of ongoing platform extensions to accommodate 15-coach trains, improving capacity and passenger convenience, it said. Block timings and section The official statement said that the block will be operated on the intervening night of April 10-11, April 2026 (Friday-Saturday). The block will be in place from 2:10 am to 3:25 at Titwala (including) to Vasind (excluding) on both UP and Down lines. Impact on train services The statement said that several long-distance trains will be regulated during the block period between 2:27 am and 3:25 am - - 12102 Shalimar - LTT Jnaneswari Express (regulated at Vasind) - 18030 Shalimar - LTT Express (regulated at Asangaon) - 12810 Howrah - CSMT Express (regulated at Atgaon) - 20104 Bhatni - LTT Express (regulated at Khardi) - 01026 Ballia - Dadar Express and 01139 Nagpur - Madgaon Special (regulated in Bhusawal Division) Passengers are advised that any additional late-running mail, express, or passenger trains may also be regulated or short-terminated depending on operational requirements, it said. Passenger advisory The Central Railway have requested passengers to cooperate and bear with the temporary inconvenience. The block is necessary to ensure safety and improve railway infrastructure. Western Railway rolls out 15-coach trains at Virar station Meanwhile, with a successful trial run completed on Sunday, Virar railway station is now ready to handle 15-coach suburban trains, bringing a potential 25 per cent jump in passenger capacity per trip on the Virar-Dahanu stretch. Western Railway (WR) plans to run eight 15-car services between Virar and Dahanu and seven between Virar and Churchgate. But officials say this is just the beginning. A bigger capacity boost is on the horizon. Two new ready-made 15-coach trains arrived at the Virar carshed over the weekend to support the rollout. This marks the first-ever introduction of 15-coach suburban trains on the Virar-Dahanu section.
09 April,2026 05:06 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA court in Maharashtra’s Nashik district on Thursday remanded self-proclaimed godman and astrologer Ashok Kharat to five days of police custody in connection with a third rape case, further intensifying the legal troubles of the jailed accused who is already facing multiple serious charges, reported PTI. Third rape case involves pregnant survivor According to investigators, the latest case involves allegations that Kharat sexually assaulted a seven-month pregnant woman, who is the wife of one of his office employees. The accused allegedly exploited the woman under the pretext of performing rituals for ensuring the birth of a healthy child, reported PTI. The complaint states that the abuse continued over an extended period, including during the advanced stages of the woman’s pregnancy. The incidents are said to have taken place between November 2023 and December 2025 at Kharat’s office in Nashik as well as at a temple in Mirgaon village in Sinnar taluka. Court proceedings held via video conferencing Due to security concerns, Kharat was produced before the court through video conferencing instead of being physically present. The hearing was conducted before Chief Judicial Magistrate B N Ichpurani, who approved the Special Investigation Team’s (SIT) request for police custody until April 13, reported PTI. Earlier, on April 8, Kharat had been remanded to 14-day judicial custody in connection with a second rape case and was lodged in Nashik Road Central Jail. However, the SIT subsequently sought his custody in the third case, which the court permitted. SIT seeks deeper probe into rituals and finances During the hearing, public prosecutor Shailendra Bagde, representing the SIT, argued that custodial interrogation was necessary to uncover crucial aspects of the case. He highlighted that investigators need to determine how Kharat procured items such as toy snakes and tigers, which he allegedly used to intimidate victims during so-called rituals, reported PTI. The SIT also informed the court that financial transactions linked to Kharat’s activities are yet to be thoroughly examined. The prosecution had sought seven days of police custody to facilitate a comprehensive probe. Defence opposes fresh custody Kharat’s defence lawyer Sachin Bhate opposed the SIT’s plea, arguing that the points raised by the prosecution had already been investigated in earlier cases. He maintained that there was no justification for granting further police custody, reported PTI. After hearing arguments from both sides, the court granted five days of police remand instead of the seven days sought by the prosecution. Whistleblower evidence strengthens case The case gained momentum after the victim’s husband, who had initially doubted her allegations, reportedly installed a hidden camera in Kharat’s office after hearing about similar complaints from other women. The recordings allegedly captured incriminating evidence. When Kharat discovered the surveillance, he is said to have threatened the employee. The husband later submitted a pen drive containing objectionable videos to the police, which became a key piece of evidence in the investigation. Multiple cases intensify scrutiny Investigating officer Amol Bharti presented details of the case during the hearing. Officials confirmed that Kharat is currently facing nearly a dozen criminal cases, including at least eight related to sexual assault, reported PTI. The ongoing investigation by the SIT is expected to uncover further details about the extent of the alleged offences, as authorities continue to examine evidence and question the accused in custody. (With inputs from PTI)
09 April,2026 04:49 PM IST | Nashik | mid-day online correspondentThe Congress on Thursday officially withdrew its candidate from the Baramati bypoll, stating that the move was aimed at preserving Maharashtra’s long-standing political culture and maintaining decorum in the wake of a recent tragedy, reported news agency PTI. The party’s candidate, Akash More, pulled out of the race just ahead of the nomination withdrawal deadline in Pune district. Confirming the development, Akash More said he acted in accordance with instructions from the party leadership, bringing an end to Congress’ participation in the closely watched by-election. Decision rooted in political culture and respect Announcing the decision, Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal said the withdrawal was prompted by the tragic demise of former Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, who passed away in a plane crash a little over two months ago, reported PTI. Sapkal emphasized that the Congress chose to step back to uphold the state’s tradition of political sensitivity and mutual respect during times of loss. He noted that while Ajit Pawar began his political journey with the Congress, he later aligned with other parties, reported PTI. The Baramati bypoll has drawn significant attention as Sunetra Pawar, Ajit Pawar’s widow and current Deputy Chief Minister, is contesting the seat. Election to proceed despite Congress exit Despite Congress withdrawing from the contest, the by-election will proceed as scheduled on April 23, with vote counting set for May 4. According to party leaders, more than 30 candidates remain in the fray, ruling out the possibility of an uncontested election. Sapkal clarified that while Congress has withdrawn its candidate, it is not extending support to any other contender in the election. The move, he reiterated, is purely symbolic and rooted in maintaining decorum rather than political alignment. Appeals and political outreach influenced decision The decision followed sustained outreach from several political leaders. Sapkal revealed that Sunetra Pawar had personally contacted him multiple times and had also met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in New Delhi to request the party’s withdrawal from the contest. He also dismissed speculation that the move was influenced by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, stating that the decision was taken independently by the Congress leadership, reported PTI. Focus shifts to future electoral battles Looking ahead, Sapkal asserted that Congress is preparing for a stronger political contest in the future. He stated with confidence that the party will field a candidate in Baramati in the 2029 assembly elections and aims to secure victory, reported PTI. The Congress leader also drew attention to the Rahuri assembly bypoll in Ahilyanagar district, which was necessitated by the death of BJP legislator Shivajirao Kardile. He argued that the same standards of political decorum should apply there as well, reported PTI. In Rahuri, the BJP has fielded Akshay Kardile, son of the late MLA, while the opposition has nominated Govind Mokate as its candidate. A rare moment of restraint in competitive politics The Congress’ decision to withdraw from the Baramati bypoll reflects an unusual moment of restraint in an otherwise competitive political environment. While electoral battles often dominate the political narrative, the move signals an attempt to balance political strategy with sensitivity and respect during a period of mourning. As the bypoll approaches, all eyes will remain on Baramati, not only for its electoral outcome but also for the broader message it sends about political conduct in Maharashtra. (With inputs from PTI)
09 April,2026 04:28 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) has expanded it Mumbai 'Mahila Morcha' team, announcing a list of 33 newly appointed members. In a post on X, BJP Mumbai announced the new office-bearers and executive committee of its Mahila Morcha. According to the post, the appointments were made under the guidance of Mumbai BJP President Ameet Satam. The announcement was formally made by Mahila Morcha President Yojana Thokale. The newly formed team is expected to play a key role in strengthening the party’s women’s wing in Mumbai, particularly in organisational activities and outreach programmes. भाजपा मुंबई अध्यक्ष आ. @AmeetSatam जी यांच्या मार्गदर्शनाखाली भाजपा मुंबई महिला मोर्चाच्या अध्यक्षा श्रीमती योजना ठोकळे ताई यांनी आज भारतीय जनता पार्टी महिला मोर्चा, मुंबईच्या नवनियुक्त पदाधिकाऱ्यांची व कार्यकारिणीची घोषणा केली.नवनियुक्त सर्व पदाधिकाऱ्यांचे मनःपूर्वक अभिनंदन! pic.twitter.com/Qwba33ZOkD — BJP Mumbai (@BJP4Mumbai) April 9, 2026 The party extended its congratulations to all the newly appointed office-bearers, expressing confidence in their ability to contribute effectively to the organisation’s growth and initiatives. Congress says BJP didn't approach it to seek withdrawal of Baramati bypoll Meanwhile, Maharashtra Congress denied reports suggesting that leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party had approached it to withdraw its candidate from the upcoming Baramati assembly bypoll. The party described such claims as “false, misleading, and baseless,” accusing the BJP of spreading misinformation for political purposes, reported PTI. In an official statement, Congress leaders clarified that no discussions or communications had taken place between the two parties regarding the withdrawal of its nominee. The party emphasised that reports claiming otherwise were “incorrect and devoid of facts.” The Congress further alleged that the rumours were deliberately circulated to create confusion among political allies, particularly targeting the NCP, reported PTI. The Baramati assembly seat fell vacant following the death of senior leader Ajit Pawar in a plane crash on January 28. The bypoll is scheduled for April 23, with counting set for May 4. Ajit Pawar’s wife, Sunetra Pawar, who assumed the role of deputy chief minister and also became president of the NCP after his passing, is contesting the election as the candidate of the ruling Mahayuti alliance. (With inputs from PTI)
09 April,2026 04:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA fire broke out at a hotel kitchen in Maharashtra's Thane district, civic officials said on Thursday, adding that no injuries were reported in the incident According to the Regional Disaster Management Cell (RDMC) of the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), the incident was reported on April 9, 2026 at around 10:06 am. The incident occurred at the hotel, located beside the Ganpati temple in the Thane Market area at Jambhli Naka (West), officials said. The fire reportedly started in an electric stove inside the hotel they said. Emergency services rush to spot The officials said that the police personnel from Thane Nagar Police Station, along with officials from the electricity department (MSEDCL) and the fire brigade, quickly reached the spot. Two fire engines were deployed to control the situation. They said that no one was injured in the incident. The quick response from emergency teams helped prevent the fire from spreading further. Damage limited to equipment The fire caused damage to the electric stove and some electrical wiring within the hotel. However, no major structural damage was reported. Fire brigade personnel successfully extinguished the blaze, and the situation is now fully under control. Officials are monitoring the site to ensure safety. Fire breaks out in Goregaon high-rise; 5 rescued safely Meanwhile, a Level-I fire broke out in a residential high-rise at Royal Palms Estate in Goregaon (East) on Tuesday evening, prompting a swift response from emergency services. According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s Mumbai Fire Brigade, the incident was reported at 7:43 pm. The blaze occurred at Emerald No. 1, Unit No. 30, located on Aarey Road. Officials said the fire was confined to flat no. 803 and partially affected flat no. 804 on the 8th floor of the stilt-plus-20-storey building. The blaze involved electric wiring and installations, wooden furniture, office records and files, PVC pipes, insulating materials, steel rods, and stock of scrap materials. Additionally, wooden doors, frames, and scrap materials in the adjacent flat were also impacted. Fire extinguished The Mumbai Fire Brigade declared the incident as a Level-I fire at 8:09 pm, categorising it as a minor blaze. Firefighting teams, along with police personnel, ambulance services, and officials from the electricity department, were rushed to the spot. The fire was successfully extinguished at 9:47 pm. During the operation, five persons were safely rescued by fire brigade personnel through the building’s staircase. Additionally, 22 residents — including 10 men, 8 women, 3 children, and a pet dog — were found safe in the refuge area on the 15th floor. No injuries were reported in the incident. Authorities are yet to ascertain the exact cause of the fire.
09 April,2026 03:46 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondentIn a significant political development, the Congress party has announced that it will not contest the upcoming by-election to the Baramati assembly constituency. The decision, confirmed by senior leader Ramesh Chennithala, comes as a mark of respect following the untimely demise of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Congress opts out citing respect for Ajit Pawar Speaking to PTI, Chennithala, who serves as the AICC general secretary in-charge of Maharashtra, stated that the party has instructed its state unit to withdraw its candidate from the electoral race. The Baramati bypoll was necessitated after the tragic death of Ajit Pawar earlier this year, an event that has deeply impacted the state’s political landscape. He emphasized that the Congress decision is intended as a respectful gesture, acknowledging Ajit Pawar’s long-standing contribution to Maharashtra politics. The last date for withdrawal of nominations falls on April 9, making the announcement timely and decisive. Sunetra Pawar in fray for Baramati seat The bypoll is being contested by Sunetra Pawar, who is seeking election from the seat previously held by her late husband. Her candidature has garnered widespread attention, with many political leaders advocating for an uncontested election as a mark of solidarity. Congress leader Akash More had earlier filed his nomination for the April 23 bypoll. However, following internal deliberations and external appeals, the party has now chosen to step back from the contest. Calls for unopposed election gain momentum Leaders across the political spectrum, including those from the ruling alliance and opposition, have been urging Congress to withdraw from the race. Prominent among them is Sharad Pawar, chief of the NCP (SP), who reiterated that the bypoll is being held under tragic circumstances. Sharad Pawar, along with MP Supriya Sule and MLA Rohit Pawar, had appealed to Congress to facilitate an unopposed election. While acknowledging Congress as an independent national party, Sharad Pawar suggested that refraining from contesting would be a fitting tribute to Ajit Pawar’s legacy. Previous conditions and political tensions Prior to this decision, Congress had indicated that it would consider withdrawing only if a formal FIR was registered regarding the plane crash that led to Ajit Pawar’s death in January. This condition had added a layer of complexity to the political discourse surrounding the bypoll. The situation had also turned somewhat contentious in recent days. Parth Pawar, son of Sunetra Pawar, had publicly criticized Congress for fielding a candidate, even predicting a decline in the party’s political standing. Legacy of Ajit Pawar in Baramati Ajit Pawar was a towering figure in Maharashtra politics and had represented the Baramati assembly constituency eight times. His deep-rooted connection with the region and administrative experience made him one of the most influential leaders in the state. The Congress party’s decision not to contest the bypoll is likely to pave the way for a smoother electoral process, while also reflecting a rare moment of political consensus during a period of mourning. (With inputs from PTI)
09 April,2026 03:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
