Yugendra Pawar enters Maharashtra politics from Baramati

As Maharashtra's Legislative Assembly elections approach, Yugendra Pawar, a third-generation member of the influential Pawar family, is preparing to enter politics. He is expected to contest from Baramati, potentially facing off against his uncle Ajit Pawar or cousin Jay Ajit Pawar. This situation could lead to a significant family rivalry, reminiscent of previous electoral battles within the clan. Yugendra has initiated his 'Swabhiman Yatra' to connect with the electorate, starting from the Maruti Temple in his hometown of Kanheri. Yugendra, who has completed his higher education in the United States, aims to visit around 200 villages in Baramati over the next fortnight. He intends to engage with local residents, understand their concerns, and seek their blessings, emphasizing the importance of staying connected to the community as advised by his grand-uncle, Sharad Pawar. His campaign is also supported by other family members, including Supriya Sule, who has previously won elections convincingly. The Pawar family has experienced internal divisions, particularly after the NCP split in July 2023, which has complicated political dynamics in Baramati. The recent Lok Sabha elections highlighted these tensions, as family members campaigned against each other, leading to a challenging decision for voters. Despite the rivalry, Yugendra has expressed a desire to maintain respect for his uncle Ajit Pawar, avoiding personal attacks in his political journey. Yugendra's entry into politics marks a new chapter for the Pawar family, as he seeks to uphold the political legacy established by Sharad Pawar while navigating the complexities of family dynamics and electoral competition in Maharashtra.