The programme had to be altered when district returning officer Vijay Kumar Guatam announced that Sonia Gandhi's visit would be considered as an electiontour and that the party would have to bear the expenses for it. The party leaders then came up with the excuse that Sonia would salute the statue and would address the rally. Besides, Sonia, top Congress leaders including AICC general secretary Madhavrao Scindia, party state unit chief Prataprao Bhosale and A R Antulay will attend the function.

The Congress move is seen in political circles as a strategic decision to choose the venue for Sonia's rally. The Bhor region had a unique place in Shivaji's life. Besides,Raigad fort, Shivaji's first capital is located in the same area. The most significant historic fact is that Shivaji's soldiers - described as `Mavala' - hail from this region.

Political observers feel that the venue has been chosen to checkmate Pawar's main political plank - the Maratha pride. The Congress leaders believe that party will counter Pawar's political strategy of awakening Maratha pride with Sonia's rally.