Yugendra Pawar, Sharad Pawar’s grandnephew and a candidate from the Sharad Pawar-led NCP, is set to contest against his uncle, Ajit Pawar, in the Maharashtra Assembly elections from Baramati on November 20. Speaking to ANI, Yugendra expressed disappointment over the family divide in politics, noting that their unity once extended to both Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha. However, after the NCP split led by Ajit Pawar in June 2023, Yugendra says his loyalty remains with Sharad Pawar, the NCP founder and family patriarch.

Baramati is poised for another Pawar-versus-Pawar contest, following Supriya Sule’s victory over Sunetra Pawar in the Lok Sabha elections earlier this year. Yugendra remains optimistic but realistic about his chances, acknowledging the challenge of running against a family member with a long-standing constituency. He remarked, "I don’t think it will be tough, but it won’t be easy either," adding that Sharad Pawar’s support has rallied local backing in Baramati.

Making his political debut, Yugendra expressed gratitude for the opportunity given by Sharad Pawar, State President Jayant Patil, and Working President Supriya Sule. He has committed to addressing key issues like rising crime rates, local leadership dynamics, and unemployment in Baramati. Additionally, Yugendra highlighted the need for improved water management, noting that despite Baramati’s access to the Nira River, pollution limits its usability, leaving many villages drought-prone.

On reservation, Yugendra affirmed his support for the NCP’s stance, echoing Supriya Sule’s call in Parliament for targeted reservation for certain communities. He plans to continue engaging with Baramati’s rural communities, valuing Sharad Pawar’s advice to connect directly with people in smaller villages.