Big crowd in attendance, CM files nomination in Karad

The huge crowd that turned up for Chavan’s three-km rally has surprised political observers and voters in Karad. “In last 10 years, this was the biggest rally held in this part,” said Arjun Kharat, who had come all the way from Sangli to attend the rally. “I am delighted at the support the CM has received at the outset. This only reflects what will happen on the counting day,” said Kharat, a Congress worker.

The CM is facing a challenge from former Congressmen. The principal opposition is from Undalkar (76),  who was in for a disappointment on Saturday, with just about as less than 1000 of his supporters turning up when he filed his nomination papers as an Independent candidate.

Undalkar was being wooed by Sharad Pawar-led NCP, but refused to join the party though he has resigned from the Congress. “Undalkar has asked NCP to support him from outside, but has refused to join the party,” said Hanumant M, a close supporter of Undalkar. Chavan is also facing opposition from Atul Bhosale, who switched from Congress to the BJP three weeks ago. Bhosale, in fact, was considered close to Chavan.

Yet another surprise candidate in Karad South constituency is Ajinkya Patil, the son of Bihar Governor D Y Patil. Ajinkya has been fielded by the Shiv Sena, but he is considered a light-weight. After Undalkar refused to take its support, the NCP has fielded Rajendra Yadav.