Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol Responds to Ajit Pawar's Allegations
Union Minister and BJP leader Murlidhar Mohol has strongly countered what he calls "low-level criticism" from Nationalist Congress Party chief Ajit Pawar. The political tussle between the two leaders intensified during the Pune Municipal Corporation election campaign.
Personal Attacks Spark Response
Mohol explained his decision to speak out against the NCP's tactics. "The PMC election was portrayed as Ajit Pawar versus Murlidhar Mohol," he stated after casting his vote in Kothrud. "I never did personal criticism, but I had to speak up when the rivals started saying things about me."
The BJP leader specifically pointed to attacks from Ajit Pawar's social media team. He claimed these attacks crossed lines of political decorum.
Corruption Allegations and Counterclaims
Ajit Pawar had earlier made serious allegations about corruption within the Pune Municipal Corporation. He pointed fingers at a team of three office bearers who served during BJP's control of the civic body. Murlidhar Mohol, who served as Pune's mayor during that period, was among those named.
The NCP chief highlighted multiple civic issues during his criticism:
- Increased traffic problems across Pune
- Deteriorating air and water quality
- River pollution due to poor management
- Controversy over a Jain community plot redevelopment
Pawar also criticized the BJP for inducting probable NCP candidates ahead of the civic polls. This move occurred despite an understanding between Mahayuti alliance partners.
Political Context and Campaign Focus
The BJP and NCP contested the 2024 state and national elections as alliance partners. However, for the Pune Municipal Corporation elections, the BJP decided to fight independently.
Mohol emphasized his party's development record during the campaign. "We showcased the work done by us when in power," he stated. The Union Minister highlighted development initiatives from both central and state governments.
- Development work initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi since 2014
- Mega development plan for Pune created by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
Mohol expressed confidence that voters would recognize these achievements. He believed they would elect the right candidates to represent their interests.
Previous Exchanges Between the Leaders
Earlier in the campaign, Mohol had criticized Pawar's candidate selection. He accused the NCP chief of giving tickets to individuals with criminal records. The BJP leader also held the NCP responsible for Pune's civic problems during their previous terms in power.
Ajit Pawar had publicly criticized the BJP's performance on civic infrastructure. He cited public suffering due to inadequate facilities and poor infrastructure management.
The political atmosphere remained charged throughout the election period. Both leaders engaged in pointed exchanges that highlighted their differing perspectives on Pune's development needs.
