Pimpri, 2nd July 2023: The political landscape in Pimpri-Chinchwad is experiencing a wave of turbulence as NCP MLAs Anna Bansode from Pimpri and Sunil Shelke from Maval have chosen to align themselves with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in the government led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Amidst this development, the role of NCP’s Pimpri Chinchwad city president, Ajit Gavane, remains uncertain as his mobile phone has been switched off. On the other hand, former Bhosari MLA Vilas Lande has opted to distance himself from both Ajit and Sharad Pawar, asserting his position as a ‘nationalist.’
During Ajit Pawar’s tenure, the NCP wielded significant influence over the Pimpri-Chinchwad city. When the NCP was in power in the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), Pawar played a crucial role in making key decisions for the city. This level of control extended to the organization within the city, with NCP office-bearers staunchly supporting Ajit Pawar. While the NCP once held a strong grip on Pimpri-Chinchwad, it now only has one loyal MLA, Anna Bansode, who has remained steadfast in her support for Pawar and was present at the recent swearing-in ceremony.
Similarly, NCP MLA Sunil Shelke from Maval also attended the ceremony, signaling his alignment with Ajit Pawar. Despite attempts to contact them, both Bansode and Shelke could not be reached for comment regarding their decisions.
Former Bhosari MLA Vilas Lande has declared his affiliation as a ‘nationalist.’ However, when questioned about his association with either Ajit or Sharad Pawar, he declined to provide further information or comments.
The current political scenario in Pimpri-Chinchwad presents a dynamic shift as NCP MLAs realign themselves with Ajit Pawar. This change in alliances and the uncertain status of key figures in the local NCP chapter is likely to have significant implications for the political landscape of the region. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these developments will shape the future of Pimpri-Chinchwad’s political dynamics.
