In Pune, a final push unfolded on Monday as campaigning for the municipal elections neared its deadline. NCP (SP) functionaries, who had largely stayed away from the campaign trail in Pimpri Chinchwad, stepped in with vigor. They addressed a series of rallies and held road shows across the twin cities.
Key Leaders Take the Stage
NCP (SP) state president Shashikant Shinde led the charge, joined by MLA Rohit Pawar and MPs Nilesh Lanke and Amol Kolhe. Their presence marked a significant shift. Until now, senior party figures had been mostly absent from campaigning under Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation limits. Rohit Pawar and Kolhe were exceptions, having attended several public meetings earlier.
Ajit Pawar's Dominant Role
For the most part, NCP chief Ajit Pawar spearheaded the campaign. He held rallies and road shows in both Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. No other functionaries, even from the NCP, were seen campaigning for alliance candidates in the city. This highlighted his central role in the election efforts.
Supriya Sule's Late Entry
MP Supriya Sule of NCP (SP) initially promised to lead the campaign in Pune Municipal Corporation limits. However, she stayed away until Monday. At a press conference on Saturday, when asked about her absence, Sule directed critics to check her social media for her whereabouts. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar intervened, explaining that Sule had asked him to lead as her elder brother, and she would follow his lead.
BJP's Intensive Campaign
On the BJP side, senior functionaries ramped up their efforts. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took center stage, along with minister Pankaja Munde and leaders like Shivendraraje Bhosale. Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Gopichand Padalkar, and Suresh Dhas also held a series of public meetings for party candidates.
Local MLAs and MLCs from BJP led campaigns in the city, showcasing a coordinated approach. In contrast, the NCP's only MLA from Pimpri Chinchwad, deputy speaker Anna Bansode, limited his campaign to ward no. 9. His son Siddharth is contesting from that ward, focusing efforts there.
Campaign Dynamics and Alliances
The joint manifesto for the PMC polls was released by the two NCP factions on Saturday. This move underscored their alliance despite campaign absences. With campaigning set to end at 5pm on Tuesday, both parties made last-minute appeals to voters.
The intensified activities reflect the high stakes in Pune's municipal elections. Leaders from all sides are vying for support as the deadline looms.
