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Sanjay Raut Denies MVA Confusion Over Rahuri, Baramati By-Elections

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has dismissed reports of confusion within the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) over candidate selection for the upcoming by-elections in Rahuri and Baramati. He clarified that the Baramati seat is with Sharad Pawar's NCP, while three leaders from his own party are interested in contesting from Rahuri. Raut stated that the final decision on Shiv Sena's participation rests with party president Uddhav Thackeray, following discussions within the alliance. The by-elections, scheduled for April 23, 2026, were necessitated by the demise of the sitting MLAs from these constituencies.

Key Points: MVA Unity on By-Elections: Raut Refutes Confusion Claims

  • Raut refutes MVA confusion claims
  • Baramati seat belongs to Sharad Pawar's NCP
  • Three Sena (UBT) leaders eye Rahuri ticket
  • Final decision rests with Uddhav Thackeray
  • By-polls due to sitting MLAs' demise
3 min read

UBT Sena's Sanjay Raut refutes "confusion" with MVA on Rahuri, Baramati by-elections

Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut clarifies MVA's candidate discussions for Rahuri and Baramati by-polls, emphasizing alliance unity and seat-sharing process.

"We want to make it clear that there is absolutely no confusion or disorder of any kind. - Sanjay Raut"

Mumbai, April 5

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday refuted claims of any confusion within the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi regarding discussions on the upcoming by-elections in Rahuri and Baramati constituencies.

Speaking at a press conference, Raut emphasised that the Baramati seat belongs to Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar, who had previously contested from the constituency. Meanwhile, he said, three candidates from Shiv Sena (UBT) have expressed interest in contesting the Rahuri seat.

"We want to make it clear that there is absolutely no confusion or disorder of any kind. There are two by-elections, both due to the unfortunate demise of sitting MLAs. Yesterday, Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray held discussions regarding these elections. Regarding Rahuri, a meeting is scheduled today with Sharad Pawar's party. The Baramati seat was not contested by us; it was contested by Sharad Pawar. For Rahuri, three prominent leaders from our party are interested, but the final decision will be made despite their interest. First preference will be given to the Nationalist Congress Party, since they had contested the seat previously; after our three interested leaders, it will be Congress's turn," said Raut.

Raut further clarified that NCP leader Sunetra Pawar will contest the by-polls in alliance with the BJP, while the final decision regarding Shiv Sena (UBT)'s participation rests with party president Uddhav Thackeray. He added that elections are a matter of respect and honour and it is inappropriate to urge anyone not to contest or leave a seat uncontested.

"Sunetra Pawar is contesting with the BJP, and while this was discussed with Uddhav Thackeray, the final decision rests with him. So far, the Shiv Sena chief has not given the final decision. Elections are a matter of respect and honor, and it is wrong to urge someone not to contest or to make a seat uncontested. Discussions within the Maha Vikas Aghadi are ongoing, and we remain united and together," said Raut.

He also noted that discussions regarding potential candidates took place between Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress Maharashtra chief Harshwardhan Sapkal.

"Regarding Congress, Harshwardhan Sapkal is the state president, and we have spoken with three potential candidates, though it is difficult to say when the candidates will be announced," he added.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for by-elections to eight Assembly constituencies in six states. The two Maharashtra constituencies include Rahuri in Ahilyanagar district and Baramati in Pune district.

The seats fell vacant following the demise of MLA Shivaji Bhanudas Kardile from Rahuri and MLA Ajit Anantrao Pawar from Baramati. Polling for these by-elections will be held on April 23, 2026, with counting scheduled for May 4.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Respecting the previous claimants like NCP for Baramati is the right thing to do. Shows political maturity. But three Sena (UBT) leaders wanting Rahuri? Sounds like confusion to me, despite the denial. Hope the alliance doesn't crack over seat-sharing 🤞
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David E
Interesting dynamic. Sunetra Pawar with BJP vs Sharad Pawar's NCP in MVA. A family split playing out in the elections. Raut is trying to project calm, but the timeline is tight - polling in less than two years. They need a clear strategy fast.
A
Anjali F
"Elections are a matter of respect and honour" - well said. Too often we see ugly press conferences where allies fight publicly. This press meet at least had a dignified tone. Final decision with Uddhav ji makes sense, he's the captain.
R
Rohit P
As a voter from Maharashtra, I'm tired of these "discussions are ongoing" statements. We need to know who is representing us. The EC has announced the schedule, now parties should announce candidates. This delay only helps the well-prepared BJP alliance.
K
Kavya N
The real test for MVA unity. If they can amicably share these two seats following the 'first preference' principle Raut mentioned, it will set a good precedent for future elections. Fingers crossed for a sensible outcome! 🙏

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