The Baramati Assembly bypoll, necessitated by the tragic death of Ajit Pawar in January, has highlighted divisions within the opposition alliance Maha Vikas Aghadi in Maharashtra. Sunetra Pawar, Ajit Pawar's widow, has received backing from the Sharad Pawar faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), who have both expressed their intent not to field candidates against her. In contrast, the Congress party has indicated plans to contest the Baramati seat, as well as Rahuri, which became vacant following the death of BJP MLA Shivajirao Kardile. This decision has sparked discontent among the NCP faction, which views it as a violation of the alliance's understanding regarding politically significant seats. Local leaders in Baramati and Pune district have advised against contesting, suggesting that a unified front is essential to maintain the anti-BJP narrative. Sunetra Pawar's recent visit to Delhi is seen as a move to strengthen her support base ahead of the elections. The bypolls are set for April 23, with results expected on May 4.