The Bharatiya Janata Party now confronts a pleasant dilemma. Following its outstanding performance in the recent civic elections, the party must finalize its mayoral candidates for both Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. With numerous senior corporators vying for these prestigious positions, BJP leaders describe the situation as a "problem of plenty."
Pune Municipal Corporation's Dominant Victory
In the Pune Municipal Corporation elections, the BJP achieved a commanding victory. The party secured 119 out of 165 seats. This represents a significant increase of 22 seats compared to the 2017 elections, where it won 97 seats. The party now holds a clear majority and can select the mayor independently without needing support from any other political group.
Frontrunners for Pune Mayor's Chair
The list of potential candidates for Pune mayor is extensive and includes several prominent names. Key contenders are:
- Former leader of the house Shrinath Bhimale
- Ganesh Bidkar
- City unit chief Dheeraj Ghate
- Senior corporators Prasanna Jagtap and Anil Tingre
The party is also actively considering women leaders for the position. Notable names in this category include Manjusha Nagpure and Varsha Tapkir. During the last term from 2017 to 2022, the mayoral seat fell under the "open category." Late MLA Mukta Tilak served for the first two-and-a-half years. Current Pune MP Muralidhar Mohol then held the post until the general body dissolved in 2022.
Party Strategy and Internal Dynamics
BJP sources indicated on Saturday that the party might spring a "surprise pick" this time around. A former BJP corporator explained the current situation. "The election results are out, but we await clarity on the party's internal preferences. The leadership will likely choose someone who can command the house effectively. They need someone with deep knowledge of the city's urban challenges. The possibility of a woman mayor remains strong and cannot be ruled out," the former corporator stated.
Although the official reservation for the mayoral post is still pending announcement, intense lobbying has already commenced. Party insiders dismissed reports of internal friction despite the fierce competition. They maintained that all workers will strictly follow the high command's final decision.
Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation Scenario
A similar situation is unfolding in the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation. Here, the BJP must select a mayor from its 84 winning corporators. Leading the race for this position are:
- City unit chief Shatrughna Kate
- Senior corporators Anuradha Gorakhe
- Vinayak Gaikwad
- Asha Suryavanshi
A party functionary confirmed that a meeting with all newly elected corporators will occur soon. This gathering will discuss the mayoral appointments and outline the party's roadmap for the twin cities.
Next Steps and Official Procedures
The State Election Commission is expected to conduct the reservation lottery for the posts within the next two weeks. This lottery will determine the official reservation categories for the mayoral positions. Many corporators will enter the race once these categories become clear. The party is likely to support senior corporators who demonstrate strong leadership capabilities and local understanding.
The BJP's decisive victories in both municipal corporations have created this unique selection challenge. Party leaders now face the task of choosing mayors who can effectively govern these important urban centers while maintaining party unity and fulfilling electoral promises.
