Pune: Following the split in the united Nationalist Congress Party, political dynamics have spilled over into the wrestling arenas of Baramati.
Historically, an international-standard wrestling event was held on the birthday of senior leader Sharad Pawar. This year, young leader Jay Pawar had organized a wrestling event on Sunday (July 28), to mark Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's birthday.
The venue chosen by Jay Pawar was the same Sharda ground used previously. Significantly, Yugendra Pawar, president of the Baramati Taluka Wrestling Association, was appointed during the party's unified days.
While Jay Pawar's competition is officially under the Baramati Taluka Wrestling Association, Yugendra Pawar, who aligns with Sharad Pawar, is not involved.
In the recent Lok Sabha elections, Yugendra Pawar managed the responsibilities for Baramati city and taluka for Sharad Pawar's faction, making a significant impact. He opposed his uncle, Ajit Pawar, and achieved victory for his group. It is speculated that this wrestling event aims to counter his influence.
Reports suggest that Ajit Pawar's group is preparing to field Jay Pawar in the upcoming assembly elections to challenge Yugendra Pawar. Although the event appears as a wrestling competition, political circles view it as Jay Pawar's entry into the political arena. Jay Pawar's activities in Baramati have notably increased as the assembly elections draw near.
Yugendra Pawar has clarified his stance, stating that he has no official information about this event as president of the Baramati Taluka Wrestling Association.
Nonetheless, he appreciates any event that provides a platform for wrestlers. He affirmed that the grand wrestling event on Sharad Pawar's birthday on December 12 will continue.
