The Election Commission of India on Sunday, March 15, 2026, announced by-elections for two assembly constituencies in Maharashtra — Baramati and Rahuri — along with assembly polls scheduled in five states across the country. Following the announcement, MLA Rohit Pawar, nephew of late leader Ajit Pawar, appeared emotional while speaking about the situation. He remarked that Baramati was once known only for discussions about the margin of victory in elections, but today a by-election has become necessary. Expressing his feelings, Rohit Pawar said that if Ajit Pawar had been alive, such a situation might never have arisen in the constituency.
For decades, the Baramati constituency has been regarded as a political stronghold of the Pawar family. Ajit Pawar had repeatedly secured victory from the seat with record-breaking margins, strengthening the family’s dominance in the region. In a social media post, Rohit Pawar reflected on the constituency’s political history and described the void created by Ajit Pawar’s passing. He wrote that no one could have imagined that a by-election would ever be required in Baramati, where the only discussion during elections used to revolve around the victory margin. However, after Ajit Pawar’s unfortunate demise, the by-election announcement has turned that unimaginable scenario into reality, highlighting how harsh reality can sometimes surpass imagination.
Earlier this week in New Delhi, Rohit Pawar met senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. After the meeting, he spoke to the media and raised serious questions about the plane crash that claimed the life of Ajit Pawar. Rohit Pawar alleged that several crucial details linked to the accident are still being concealed and warned that he would soon reveal major information supported by evidence. According to him, multiple technical aspects of the crash have not yet been made public. He asserted that citizens have the right to know the complete truth behind the incident and promised to present documents and facts that could bring the matter to light.
Rohit Pawar further said that transparency is essential in a democracy and clarified that his intention is not to make personal accusations against anyone but to ensure that the truth emerges. His remarks have once again stirred political debate in Maharashtra. Some opposition leaders have challenged him to release the information immediately if he truly possesses concrete evidence. Earlier, Rohit Pawar had already expressed suspicion about alleged attempts to tamper with the aircraft’s black box and the presence of an additional fuel tank in the plane. His latest statements have intensified discussions and speculation surrounding the circumstances of the crash.