The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a significant victory in Pune, with Murlidhar Mohol triumphing over Congress’ Ravindra Dhangekar. This win marks a notable achievement for the BJP, as they clinch the Pune Lok Sabha seat for the third consecutive time.
Historical Context of the Pune Lok Sabha Seat
Since 1952, the Pune Lok Sabha seat has been a stronghold for the Congress party, having been won by them ten times. However, the seat has also seen its fair share of shifts, with the electorate occasionally swaying towards prominent political waves or influential candidates, leading to the Congress party’s defeat on seven occasions.
Political Significance of Pune
Pune has always been a critical battleground in Maharashtra’s political landscape. The city has produced several notable political figures, including four union ministers: NV Gadgil, Mohan Dharia, VN Gadgil, and Suresh Kalmadi. Additionally, NG Goray, a High Commissioner to the UK, also hailed from Pune. This rich political heritage underscores the importance of the Pune Lok Sabha seat.
BJP’s Ascendancy in Pune
The BJP’s ascendancy in Pune began in 2014 when Anil Shirole won the seat, defeating the two-time Congress MP Suresh Kalmadi, who was embroiled in corruption allegations. The trend continued in 2019, with Girish Bapat defeating Congress rival Mohan Joshi. This string of victories set the stage for Murlidhar Mohol’s recent triumph.
Who is Murlidhar Mohol?
Murlidhar Mohol, a former Mayor of Pune, played a pivotal role in the BJP’s campaign for the Pune Lok Sabha seat. Known for his dynamic leadership and community engagement, Mohol has been instrumental in fostering strong ties within the community. His initiatives have included organizing diverse cultural and sports events, such as the ‘Maharashtra Kesari’ wrestling competition and large-scale blood donation drives.
Mohol’s close association with Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule was likely influential in his nomination and subsequent victory. His dedication to public service and community involvement resonated with the electorate, contributing to his success.
