Pune: In a historic outcome for Junnar Taluka, independent candidate and former MLA Sharad Sonawane emerged victorious in the highly competitive assembly election, defeating NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) candidate Satyasheel Sherkar by 6,664 votes.

Sonawane secured 73,355 votes, marking the first-ever win by an independent candidate in Junnar’s legislative history.

Despite a tough, five-way contest, Sonawane maintained his lead from the third round of vote counting. Satyasheel Sherkar finished second with 66,691 votes, while Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party incumbent MLA Atul Benke came in third with 48,100 votes.

Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi's Devaram Lande, who led in the first two rounds, ultimately placed fourth with 22,401 votes. Asha Buchke, who had received nearly 50,000 votes in the previous election, managed only 9,435 votes this time, finishing fifth.

Development Plans and Future Commitments

Following his victory, Sonawane reiterated his focus on Junnar’s development, with plans to push for a ₹5,000 crore tourism development project and the swift implementation of a leopard safari initiative.

"I am grateful to the people for electing me as an independent. I have no plans to join any party but will support the ruling government to ensure the development of Junnar," said Sonawane.

When questioned about his suspension from the Shiv Sena before the election, Sonawane dismissed it as a non-issue, stating, "That was a higher-level decision. I never let it affect me. The common people stood firmly by my side while many leaders shifted allegiances."

He also credited his political mentor, Balasaheb Dangat, for standing by him throughout the campaign.

Sonawane's victory has sparked celebrations among his supporters and marked a major upset for mainstream political parties in the region.