The process of appointing new city unit chiefs for Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad, and Pune district within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has hit a roadblock due to the party’s nationwide campaign called Modi@9. This campaign has been launched to commemorate nine years of the Narendra Modi-led government. The ongoing Modi@9 campaign has caused delays in forming a working committee, thereby hindering the appointment of new city unit chiefs and district presidents. As a result, there is a possibility that the terms of the current leaders may be extended until the local body polls are conducted.
Vikrant Patil, the party’s General Secretary, was entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing appointments in Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and Pune district. It was decided that the opinions of the party’s office-bearers would be considered instead of the leader’s choice. Patil conducted discussions with members of the working committee, office-bearers, MLAs, and MPs to gather their input. Initially, the appointments were scheduled to take place by May 20. However, due to the party’s state working committee meeting, the process was delayed. The new deadline was set for the end of May. Unfortunately, even after the deadline passed, the appointment of city unit chiefs and district presidents has not been finalized.
Jagdish Mulk, the current BJP City Unit Chief, has completed his three-year tenure. The names of potential candidates, such as former mayor Murlidhar Mohol, MLA Siddharth Shirole, former house leader Ganesh Bidkar, Dheeraj Ghate, and former MLA Medha Kulkarni, are being considered for the position. Vikrant Patil has conducted assessments to determine the most suitable candidate for the role, taking into account the upcoming elections and consulting leaders of assembly segments and other party members.
Mahesh Landge, the MLA representing Bhosari, served as the city party unit chief from January 16, 2020, until his tenure ended six months ago. Consequently, the process of selecting a new party unit chief had commenced. Vikrant Patil visited Pimpri Chinchwad, engaging with office-bearers and party activists, and submitted a report to the state party chief. However, the appointment has not been finalized, and there is division within the party regarding the selection of a new chief. Opinions differ on whether a new chief should be appointed before the civic elections or if Mahesh Landge should continue until the elections conclude. The name of Shankar Jagtap is also being considered for the position.
The BJP’s internal discussions and deliberations will be crucial in resolving the impasse and ensuring the appointment of capable leaders to these important positions. It is essential for the party to maintain unity and focus on effectively leading and serving the people during these challenging times.
