Pune Corporators Unite in Tribute to Visionary Leaders Ajit Pawar and Suresh Kalmadi
In a rare display of cross-party unity, newly elected corporators from various political affiliations gathered on Monday to pay solemn tributes to two towering figures of Pune's political landscape: former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and former city Member of Parliament Suresh Kalmadi. The special general body meeting, convened at the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) head office, transformed into an emotional homage celebrating the legacies of both leaders.
A Three-Hour Condolence Meeting with Over 30 Speakers
The condolence assembly extended for more than three hours, with over thirty corporators taking the floor to share personal anecdotes and professional admiration. Speakers unanimously described Ajit Pawar and Suresh Kalmadi as "visionary" leaders who had worked relentlessly for the city's comprehensive development over the past three decades. Many expressed that the daily functioning of the civic body would palpably feel the absence of their guidance and experience.
NCP Corporators Propose Naming Projects After Ajit Pawar
Demonstrating deep gratitude, numerous corporators from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) put forward a significant demand during the proceedings. They advocated for naming recently completed infrastructure projects after Ajit Pawar, aiming to immortalize his contributions. NCP corporator Nilesh Nikam highlighted Pawar's distinctive aggressive style of functioning and renowned punctuality, stating that new corporators and party workers could learn invaluable lessons from his exemplary approach to public service.
Mayor and Congress Leaders Echo Praise for Development Focus
Mayor Manjusha Nagpure conveyed her personal regret, noting that she had aspired to work alongside Ajit Pawar, but circumstances had rendered this impossible. She emphasized that leaders like Pawar and Kalmadi consistently made decisions favoring the city's progress, putting Pune's interests at the forefront. Congress member Chandrakant Kadam added poignant insights, remarking, "Ajit Pawar had a direct connection with the people. He exercised firm control over the administration and was a true taskmaster. The infrastructure he created will benefit sportspersons and citizens for generations to come."
Suresh Kalmadi's Legacy of Putting Pune on the Global Map
Congress city unit chief Arvind Shinde dedicated his tribute to Suresh Kalmadi, crediting him with bringing numerous transformative projects to Pune. Shinde asserted that Kalmadi's efforts were instrumental in pushing Pune onto the international map, elevating its profile through strategic development and high-profile initiatives that garnered global attention.
Tributes Extended to Other Veteran Leaders
In addition to honoring Ajit Pawar and Suresh Kalmadi, the corporators also paid their respects to other departed stalwarts of Pune's civic life. Solemn tributes were offered to former mayor Shantilal Suratwala and veteran social leader Baba Adhav, acknowledging their enduring contributions to the city's governance and social fabric. The meeting served as a comprehensive remembrance of the leaders who have shaped Pune's trajectory through decades of dedicated public service.
