BJP MLA Mahesh Landge Slams Ajit Pawar for Neglecting Pimpri-Chinchwad Constituents
BJP MLA Mahesh Landge launched a sharp critique against Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar during an election rally in Chikhli on Sunday evening. Landge stated he respects Pawar personally but accused him of consistently letting down the people of Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Allegations of False Promises and Disappearing Acts
Landge alleged that Ajit Pawar has a long history of making false allegations and defamatory statements. He claimed Pawar takes voters for a ride by disappearing for five years after elections, only reappearing when the next polls approach. "After taking votes, he vanishes for five years and only resurfaces during election time," Landge declared at the rally.
The Bhosari MLA emphasized that Pawar enjoyed a long tenure at the helm of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC). Despite this, Landge asserted that Pawar never fulfilled the promises made to local residents. "You cheated them... you never delivered on your commitments," Landge charged.
Three Decades of Alleged Neglect
Landge painted a picture of consistent neglect spanning thirty years. He questioned why Pimpri-Chinchwad citizens would continue voting for Pawar when he has repeatedly failed to resolve their problems. "They believed he would address their issues, but he never did," Landge stated bluntly.
The BJP leader contrasted his own approach with Pawar's alleged absence. Landge claimed he remains accessible to constituents during crises like excessive rainfall and flooding, while Pawar allegedly never shows up to address such civic issues after elections.
Political Context and Reactions
Landge's comments come amid criticism from NCP leaders and workers who accused him of showing disrespect toward the Deputy Chief Minister in previous election speeches. On one occasion, Landge even made similar remarks in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Ajit Pawar downplayed the controversy, describing Landge as a "big leader" who might be underestimating him. Meanwhile, Landge revealed that the NCP attempted to defame him during both the 2014 and 2019 elections. He noted that despite these efforts, voters in Pimpri-Chinchwad rejected those tactics.
The exchange highlights ongoing political tensions in Maharashtra as election campaigning intensifies. Landge's direct criticism, while maintaining a veneer of respect, underscores the complex dynamics between political opponents in the state.
