Baramati bypoll: Sunetra Pawar urges voters not to judge her by gender

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar on Sunday launched her campaign for the Baramati bypoll asserting that her work should not be judged on the basis of gender reported news agency PTIShe began her campaign by offering prayers at a Hanuman temple in Kanheri village following a longstanding tradition associated with her late husband Ajit Pawar who would start his election campaigns from the same locationlsquoFaced Initial Doubts But Found Strength in Public SupportrsquoAddressing supporters after the temple visit Sunetra Pawar acknowledged that there were initial doubts about her ability to take on political responsibilities as a woman However she said the support of the people of Baramati and the blessings of Ajit Pawar gave her the confidence to move forward reported PTIShe emphasised that leadership and commitment to public service should not be viewed through the lens of gender urging voters to evaluate her work and dedication insteadVows to Carry Forward Ajit Pawarrsquos LegacyReflecting on the passing of Ajit Pawar in a plane crash earlier this year Sunetra Pawar said his dedication to public service remained evident until his final moments She described social service as the core of his political ideology and pledged to continue his work for the people of Baramati reported PTIShe highlighted his commitment to inclusive governance stating that he worked to deliver justice without discrimination based on caste creed or religionFocus on Welfare Schemes and DevelopmentSunetra Pawar also pointed to initiatives such as the Ladki Bahin Yojana which provides financial assistance to women from economically weaker sections as a key example of Ajit Pawarrsquos focus on womenrsquos empowerment reported PTIShe assured voters that ongoing development projects would be continued and expanded Addressing a major local concern she promised to tackle water scarcity issues affecting 33 villages in Baramati tehsil reported PTIBypoll Triggered by Ajit Pawarrsquos DemiseThe Baramati bypoll scheduled for April 23 was necessitated following Ajit Pawarrsquos death in January He had represented the constituency for eight consecutive terms since 1991 making Baramati a stronghold of his political careerWhile there were calls to make the election unopposed the contest remains active The Congress withdrew its candidate on the final day of nominations but 22 Independent candidates are still in the fray against Sunetra PawarCounting Scheduled for May 4The results of the Baramati bypoll will be declared on May 4 with the election seen as a significant political test for Sunetra Pawar as she seeks to carry forward her husbandrsquos legacy and establish her own leadership in Maharashtra politicsWith inputs from PTI