In an unprecedented show of collective frustration, residents across Pune are taking a stand against political canvassing, barring candidates from entering their housing societies. This decisive action comes as a direct response to years of unfulfilled election promises and deteriorating basic infrastructure, casting a shadow over the final week of campaigning for the civic polls.
From Water Woes to Noise Nuisance: Societies Draw the Line
The city's electoral landscape is witnessing a stark transformation as voters move from passive reception to active resistance. Campaigners criss-crossing wards with door-to-door appeals and auto-rickshaws blaring jingles are being met with firm rejection. In Dhanori, societies grappling with persistent water supply issues have sent politicians packing. Mohit Sharma, a resident, highlighted their plight, stating that water tankers are a permanent arrangement and candidates are only remembered during elections. "This time, we told them to fix the problem before asking for votes," he asserted.
On Sinhagad Road, the primary grievance is unbearable noise pollution. Vishwanath More, a senior citizen, questioned the democratic process, pointing out the disturbance caused to those working from home, students, and the elderly. "The noise from autos with loudspeakers plays from morning till night. Is this how a democracy should sound?" he asked.
Specific Demands Replace Slogans
Residents are now presenting concrete, localised demands instead of listening to generic assurances. In Balewadi, the Sai Silicon Valley housing society erected a banner declaring that only candidates who remove a problematic local wine shop will secure their votes. Ameya Kinalekar, a resident, explained their decade-long protest against the nuisance, noting that their bloc of nearly 150 voters, supported by adjacent societies, is united on this issue.
The situation is equally dire in Wagholi, where breakneck development has severely outpaced infrastructure. Here, societies are refusing to entertain any candidate visits until the pervasive dust pollution from construction and poor road conditions are addressed. Keshav Satav, a local resident, summed up the anger: "We only breathe dust. Our vehicles are damaged and children fall sick. If candidates cannot ensure basic living conditions, why should we give them our time?"
A Manifesto of Basic Rights
This new voter assertiveness is perhaps best encapsulated at Kalpak Homes in Wagholi. The society has posted a notice listing non-negotiable demands on behalf of nearly 7,000 residents in the neighbourhood. This collective manifesto includes:
- Systematic underground drainage and sewage lines
- Reliable municipal water supply
- Motorable internal roads
- Regular garbage collection with scientific disposal
- Fully functional street lights
Political observer Prakash Pawar sees this as a significant shift in the urban voter's mindset. "People are no longer impressed by rallies or slogans. They want accountability and measurable action," he stated, highlighting that the era of taking voters for granted is ending in Pune's housing societies.
