Fadnavis Takes Aim at NCP's Candidate Selection in Pune Polls
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis wrapped up the Bharatiya Janata Party's campaign for the Pune Municipal Corporation elections with sharp criticism. He targeted the Nationalist Congress Party alliance over its candidate selection process.
Fadnavis made his remarks during a rally ahead of the January 15 polls. He specifically addressed concerns about candidates fielded by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's NCP faction.
'Elections Build Leaders, Not Goons'
"This election aims to transform citizens' lives," Fadnavis declared. "PMC elections should create future city leadership, not local goons."
The Chief Minister referred to NCP candidates who allegedly have criminal backgrounds. He emphasized that voters should take the election seriously as it shapes Pune's future.
BJP leaders have consistently criticized Pawar for selecting candidates with registered offences. They question the alliance's commitment to clean politics.
Questioning Alliance Promises
Fadnavis also challenged the NCP-NCP(SP) alliance's election manifesto. "I avoid direct criticism, but they offer assurances without fulfillment guarantees," he stated.
The manifesto promises free Metro and public bus travel. Pawar compared this to state government schemes like Ladki Bahin and free agricultural electricity.
Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol and State Minister Chandrakant Patil joined the criticism. They called the alliance's promises impractical for voters.
Development Achievements and Future Plans
Fadnavis highlighted Pune's infrastructure challenges under previous administrations. He mentioned a flyover that required demolition due to poor planning.
The BJP government now focuses on long-term city planning. Their current projects include:
- A new Ganeshkhind Road flyover opening soon
- Railway underpass widening from 6m to 18m
- 110 km Metro network development
- 33 new flyovers across the city
- 32 main road expansions to reduce congestion
- Underground road construction for traffic management
Fadnavis reported substantial development work during BJP's five-year rule. The government completed Rs 35,000 crore projects and planned Rs 44,000 crore more.
Additional priorities include:
- Clean drinking water access
- Complete sewage treatment systems
- Efficient garbage processing
- Slum development initiatives
Women Empowerment and Voting Appeal
The Chief Minister assured women voters about continuing the Ladki Bahin scheme. This program provides Rs 1,500 monthly to eligible women from economically weaker sections.
"The Ladki Bahin scheme continues while I serve as Chief Minister," Fadnavis promised. "My sisters will ensure BJP's PMC election victory."
He urged elected BJP representatives to empower women further. They should help create 'Lakhpati Didis' following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision.
Fadnavis noted that 50 lakh women in Maharashtra already achieved this status. He expects many more to join them within six months.
The Chief Minister concluded with a voting appeal. He asked citizens to support the BJP symbol rather than individual candidates.
