Nagpur witnessed a dramatic political spectacle on Tuesday as campaigning for the Nagpur Municipal Corporation elections neared its end. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took to the streets on a Royal Enfield motorcycle, personally leading a vibrant roadshow through the heart of the city. This move sent a strong message of confidence to voters just before the polls.
A High-Energy Motorcycle Rally
After addressing five rallies and interactions across Nagpur, Fadnavis embarked on a 2.3km motorbike rally. He rode the motorcycle belonging to MLA Pravin Datke, navigating through central and eastern parts of the city. The route covered politically sensitive prabhags, areas considered crucial in the upcoming civic contest.
Hundreds of participants joined the moving convoy, creating a lively procession. Large crowds gathered at major junctions to greet the chief minister. Streets were lined with saffron flags and lotus symbols, amplifying the festive atmosphere. The rally itself comprised 25 motorcycles, with Fadnavis at the forefront.
Detailed Route and Key Stops
The roadshow began at 11.45am from Bharat Mata Chowk. Here, Fadnavis garlanded the Bharat Mata statue before setting off. The procession then wound through several important chowks:
- Teen Nal Chowk
- Shahid Chowk
- Tonga Stand Chowk
- Gandhi Putla Chowk
- Pandit Bachharaj Chowk
- Mahal Chowk
It concluded at Gandhighat near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue around 12.45 pm. This stretch covered prabhags 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and adjoining areas, highlighting their electoral significance.
Prominent Participants and Security Arrangements
Other senior leaders joined the rally on separate motorcycles. Revenue Minister and Nagpur Guardian Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule rode another bike with BJP city president and former mayor Dayashankar Tiwari as pillion. MLC Parinay Fuke drove a separate motorcycle with Sena MLC Krupal Tumane seated behind him.
The event was conducted amid tight security and full protocol. All participants wore helmets as mandated, ensuring safety during the high-profile roadshow.
Organizer's Insights and Public Response
MLA Pravin Datke, who organized the roadshow, revealed that over 1,500 bikers participated. Many were driven by women BJP members, showcasing inclusive participation. Datke explained, "As the CM had not taken any rally in our area, we decided to organize a bike rally that will cover about six to seven prabhags. We have covered all temples, communities, and voters in just over one hour and the response was tremendous."
BJP supporters expressed enthusiasm about Fadnavis's personal involvement. One supporter noted, "Fadnavis himself rode the bike, adding a personal and relatable touch that boosted the morale of party workers and candidates." Another observer described the scene as "unforgettable," pointing to crowds that lined the roads waving flags and showering flowers.
Political Context and Electoral Implications
Though BJP traditionally held sway in central Nagpur, Fadnavis's decision to campaign personally through these neighbourhoods drew significant attention. This move comes amid reports of dissent over ticket distribution within the party. Some leaders privately acknowledged that rebel candidates could complicate contests in closely fought wards.
At the conclusion of the roadshow, Fadnavis paid tribute at the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This symbolic act marked the end of a high-visibility campaign in a city that remains a prestige battleground for the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance.
With canvassing ending at 5.30 pm on Tuesday, all eyes now turn to polling on January 15 and counting on January 16. The motorcycle rally has undoubtedly energized BJP's campaign, setting the stage for a closely watched electoral battle in Nagpur.
