Pune: Independent Sharad Sonawane Defeats NCP’s Benke And Sherkar In Junnar By 6,664 Votes
Junnar, 23rd November 2024: In yet another shocking result, independent candidate Sharad Sonawane won in Junnar by 6,664 votes, defeating sitting MLA Atul Benke from Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Satyashil Sherkar from NCP – Sharad Pawar (NCP-SP).
The race was expected to be an NCP vs. NCP battle, with people debating whether Sherkar or Benke would emerge victorious, but Sonawane defied expectations.
Many political experts had predicted anti-incumbency sentiments against Benke and speculated that Sonawane would split Sherkar’s votes. However, in the end, it was Sharad Sonawane who triumphed.
The people of Junnar had several grievances, including the growing leopard menace, with attacks increasing daily and innocent lives lost. MLA Benke faced criticism for not addressing this issue effectively. Sonawane campaigned on this concern, which resonated with the voters, contributing to his win.
The constituency had 3.20 lakh voters, and the overall voter turnout was 68.44%, a high number. This high turnout worked in Sonawane’s favour, helping him secure victory.
