Pune: Political Turmoil Erupts in Pimpri-Chinchwad: RPI Athawale Expresses Discontent at Mahayuti Meeting

Varad Bhatkhande

Pimpri Chinchwad, 8th April 2024: A Mahayuti assembly in Pimpri-Chinchwad witnessed a tumultuous turn as the Republican Party of India (RPI) Athawale faction expressed their dissatisfaction openly. The absence of the city president from the stage and the lack of acknowledgement raised concerns among party officials, leading them to withhold support for Shrirang Barane until directives were received from Ramdas Athawale.

In a bid to bolster support for Mahayuti candidate Shrirang Barane, a gathering took place today in Pimpri-Chinchwad, attended by prominent figures such as Ajit Pawar, Chandrakant Patil, and Uday Samant. However, amidst the proceedings, discontent surfaced as office bearers voiced their displeasure over the exclusion of the RPI city president from the platform.

Sensing the escalating tension, Uday Samant intervened promptly, engaging directly with the dissatisfied office bearers to address their grievances. He facilitated a meeting between Shrirang Barane, the RPI city president, and office bearers in an attempt to resolve the discord.

During another segment of the event, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar stressed Mahayuti’s candidate’s victory in Maval, aiming for increased votes from last time. Despite his rapport with opposition candidate Sanjog Waghere, Pawar urged restraint during the campaign, discouraging interactions until polling day on the 13th. He emphasized a shift towards developmental politics, asserting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for economic advancement. Pawar dismissed opposition claims and urged focus on delivering development projects to voters. He highlighted the importance of this election in determining youth welfare and defended democratic values against rumours of dictatorship. Pawar concluded by affirming the continuation of democratic elections in India’s vast democracy.

Chandrakant Patil, the Minister of Higher and Technical Education of Maharashtra emphasized the importance of maintaining a constructive dialogue, urging participants to refrain from negativity. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and other dignitaries stressed the need for unity and focused on portraying Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the key candidate, highlighting achievements and plans.

Despite minor disagreements among attendees, the meeting remained steadfast in its goal of consolidating the Mahayuti alliance’s position in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. It showcased the coalition’s commitment to development and their collective endeavour for electoral triumph.