PCMC Mayor Election Thrown Wide Open After General Category Reservation Draw
The political landscape at the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has been dramatically reshaped following the reservation draw that allocated the mayor's post to the general category. This development has effectively opened the race for all 84 newly elected BJP corporators, creating a highly competitive environment within the party's ranks.
Historical Context and Current Scenario
The 128-member general body will soon elect the 27th mayor of PCMC, an institution that was established back in 1986 with Dnyaneshwar Landge serving as its first mayor. Historically, the Congress party governed the corporation until 1999, when the undivided NCP took control and maintained power until 2017. The BJP then assumed leadership, ruling until 2022, and is now poised to select its mayor for the second consecutive term.
The reservation for the mayor's position will remain valid for 2.5 years, with another draw scheduled to take place in 2028. This follows the pattern established in 2017, when the initial 2.5-year term was reserved for the OBC category, while the remaining period was designated for women from the open category. During that tenure, the BJP elected two mayors—Nitin Kalje and Rahul Jadhav—in the first half, while Usha alias Mai Dhore served during the second half.
Top Contenders and Party Dynamics
With the general category now in play, several prominent BJP figures have emerged as leading contenders for the prestigious position. The list of potential candidates includes the party's city unit chief, Shatrughna Kate, along with Ravi Landge, Rahul Kalate, and Sheetal alias Vijay Shinde. Additionally, first-time corporators such as Navnath Jagtap and Mandar Deshpande are also in contention, reflecting the diverse pool of aspirants.
Party insiders suggest that the senior BJP leadership may face significant challenges in managing the expectations of numerous hopefuls. However, it is anticipated that the party will continue its rotational policy for the mayor's post throughout the five-year term, ensuring broader representation among elected members.
Selection Process and Future Outlook
Chinchwad MLA Shankar Jagtap, who served as the chief of election for the Pimpri Chinchwad civic poll, provided insights into the selection mechanism. He explained, "As per the party's established policy, the core committee members will deliberate on probable names for the mayor's post. The shortlisted candidates will then be presented to the party leadership, which will ultimately finalize the chosen candidate."
When questioned about the continuation of the rotational policy over the next five years, Jagtap responded, "Although this specific issue has not been formally discussed yet, we will strive to ensure that the maximum number of elected corporators receive an opportunity to contribute within the municipal corporation framework."
Administrative Procedures and Timeline
A senior PCMC official outlined the procedural steps involved in the election process. According to established protocol, a formal letter will be submitted to the divisional commissioner, specifying the proposed date for the mayor's election and the first general body meeting of the civic body. The commissioner's approval is essential, as he will appoint a dedicated officer to oversee the entire electoral process.
The official further indicated that the first general body meeting to elect the mayor is likely to be convened during the first week of February. This timeline allows sufficient opportunity for candidates to file their nominations and for necessary preparations to be completed, ensuring a smooth and transparent election procedure.
