With the crucial civic elections in Pune scheduled for January 15, a wave of internal discontent is sweeping through political camps, primarily driven by last-minute inductions from rival parties. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) strategy to bolster its ranks by welcoming leaders from the Ajit Pawar-led NCP, the NCP (SP), and the Congress has backfired, creating significant unrest among its own dedicated cadre.
Loyalists Feel Sidelined by Imported Candidates
The BJP's expansion move has deeply rattled long-serving party workers who had spent years preparing for a chance at election tickets. This resentment is palpable across multiple wards. The entry of Surendra Pathare, son of NCP (SP) MLA Bapu Pathare, has particularly angered BJP workers in the Khadakwasla area, who had opposed the Pathare family politically for nearly a decade.
Similarly, on Sinhagad Road, the induction of NCP leader Vikas Dangat has upset former corporators and aspirants who had laid extensive groundwork over several years. The discontent is not isolated. Similar resentment is simmering in key areas including Parvati, Dhayari, Khadakwasla, Ambegaon Katraj, and Dhankawdi, where imported candidates are perceived to have leapfrogged over loyal party members.
A Strategy That Jolted the Ground
In at least six Pune wards, the BJP's tactical inductions have jolted the party's core supporters. A disgruntled BJP worker voiced a common sentiment, stating, "We have asked our leaders about this injustice to loyalists. Let outsiders work for the party for five years, then give them a chance." This highlights a growing belief that cold seat arithmetic has pushed years of loyalty aside.
The situation in Warje Malwadi offers a stark example. Long-time BJP worker Vasudev Bhosale had built strong groundwork, but the induction of Sayali Wanjale has effectively closed the door on his wife's candidature. In Wadgaonsheri, NCP's Narayan Galande joining the BJP on Saturday has unsettled political equations in Ward No. 5, leaving BJP aspirant Ganesh Gaware to reluctantly accept the party's decision while advocating for recognition of grassroots toil.
Alliance Partners Also Face Pushback
The internal strife is not confined to the BJP. The other constituents of the ruling Mahayuti alliance, Shiv Sena and the NCP, are also facing internal pushback due to similar maneuvers. The influx from Congress and NCP (SP) into the Mahayuti in areas like Hadapsar and Warje has pushed BJP hopefuls such as Anil Navale and Sandeep Satav towards open resentment.
While leaders publicly downplay the exits, the tension is evident. Union minister Murlidhar Mohol emphasized a unified front, stating that all who joined were assured a warm welcome and respect. Conversely, Shiv Sena group leader Aba Bagul sought to frame the moment beyond pure politics, saying, "Shiv Sena gives importance to public interest and respects every viewpoint."
As Pune city gears up for the January 15 verdict, the political calculus of induction has undoubtedly secured some seats for the Mahayuti but at the cost of demoralizing its most committed foot soldiers, setting the stage for a highly contested election.
