Daijiworld Media Network – Solapur

Solapur, Dec 9: In a major political development ahead of the Barshi Municipal Council elections, former MLA Rajendra Raut’s group has registered a clean sweep in the Barshi Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) polls, winning all 18 of 18 seats. The victory is being seen as a significant setback for sitting MLA Dilip Sopal, with both leaders’ prestige heavily tied to the outcome.

The Baliraja Vikas Panel, led by former MLA Raut, delivered a resounding win, wiping out the opposition. Political circles are abuzz with discussions that this APMC result has emerged as a litmus test ahead of the December 21 municipal council polls — one in which Raut has clearly emerged successful.

Intense contest despite no family candidates

Even though neither Raut nor Sopal fielded family members for the first time in an APMC election, the contest remained fiercely competitive. Barshi’s political atmosphere had been charged for days as both rival camps fought the election with full force.

Before polling day, two candidates from Raut’s Baliraja Vikas Panel in the traders’ constituency were elected unopposed. Voting for the remaining 16 seats took place on December 7, witnessing an impressive 96.98% turnout. Counting was held throughout the day on December 9, with Raut’s panel sweeping all remaining seats, leaving the Sopal faction with no wins.

With the APMC results now declared, attention turns to the municipal council elections, where the outcome is expected on December 21. Political observers say the APMC verdict has given Raut a clear upper hand ahead of the next electoral test.

Winners – Cooperative constituency

• Suresh Gund – 815 votes
• Baba Gaikwad – 790 votes
• Vijay Garad – 804 votes
• Abhijit Kapse – 798 votes
• Prabhakar Dambare – 818 votes
• Ravikant Salunkhe – 791 votes
• Yashwant Mane – 813 votes