As the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) prepares for elections on January 15, the political arena is witnessing a remarkable display of endurance and experience. Veteran leaders are vying to extend their long-standing tenures, with the Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) Yogesh Behl aiming for an unprecedented seventh term and the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Usha Dhore seeking a fifth consecutive victory.
The Unbeatable Streak of Yogesh Behl
Yogesh Behl's journey in PCMC politics is nothing short of legendary. He first entered the electoral fray in 1986, contesting as an independent at the young age of 22. Despite losing that initial election by a razor-thin margin of just 36 votes to BJP's Vasant Shevde, it set the stage for a career defined by resilience. Since that narrow defeat, Behl has not lost a single election, securing six consecutive victories.
Currently heading the Pimpri-Chinchwad unit of the NCP, Behl has been a constant representative of the Sant Tukaram Nagar-Vallabhnagar ward since the corporation's inception. His political base expanded to include areas like Nashik Phata and Kasarwadi when the ward system was reconfigured into larger Prabhags. He credits his sustained success to a deep, personal connection with his constituents. "People believe in his ability to deliver. Everyone knows he is well-connected with top leaders in his party and knows several ministers," noted Jayant Kariya, a local activist from Kasarwadi.
However, his primary rival over the years, labour leader Yashwant Bhosale, offers a different perspective. Bhosale, who lost all five times he contested against Behl, alleges the use of unfair means. "He is a cash-rich person and uses every other means to woo the voters. But I have never done anything wrong," Bhosale claimed, while acknowledging that their contests were often close, with defeat margins typically under 200-300 votes.
Seasoned Campaigners and Party Hoppers
The election is not just about Behl's record bid. A cohort of seasoned politicians is also in the race, showcasing the fluid nature of political allegiances in the region.
Usha 'Mai' Dhore is contesting for a straight fifth term from the Sangvi area. Her career reflects the shifting political sands, having won twice on an NCP ticket and twice on a BJP ticket. Re-fielded by the BJP this time, Dhore has also served as the mayor of Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Other notable fourth-term contenders include:
- Seema Sawale: Recently switched from BJP to NCP, contesting from Indrayani Nagar-Balajinagar. A former standing committee chairperson, she faces a challenge from prominent orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Suhas Kamble.
- Raju Misal: A recent defector from NCP to BJP, contesting from the Pradhikaran area. Known as a close aide of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Misal is praised for his year-round groundwork.
- Usha Waghere: Seeking a fourth term from Pimprigaon. Her husband and father-in-law have both served as mayor, while she has held the position of standing committee chairperson.
Political Dynasties and Newer Entrants
The elections also highlight the role of political families and newer generations stepping into the arena.
In the Nehrunagar area, Rahul Bhosale is contesting for a third term, continuing a family legacy. His father, Hanumant Bhosale, was a corporator from 1986 to 2007 and also served as mayor. "There is complete domination of the Bhosale family in the Nehrunagar area," observed local advocate Sushil Mancharkar.
In Pimple Saudagar, former NCP city president Nana Kate is contesting for a third term, while his wife, Sheetal Kate, is also running for a third term from the same area. Nana Kate played a role in the recent NCP unification talks, having first discussed the matter with Baramati MP Supriya Sule.
The Wakad ward presents an interesting contest with Rahul Kalate, now with BJP after leaving Shiv Sena (UBT), facing off against NCP's Mayur Kalate. This is Rahul's second civic election, following in the footsteps of his parents who previously won from the area.
As Pimpri-Chinchwad votes on January 15, these elections will test the enduring appeal of veteran incumbents against the backdrop of party switches and evolving voter expectations. The outcomes will shape the governance of this major industrial hub for the next term.
