Sat Nov 23 09:54:42 UTC 2024: **Pune Assembly Elections Heat Up in Wadgaon Sheri**
PUNE, INDIA – With just three days left until the Maharashtra Assembly elections, the Wadgaon Sheri constituency is witnessing a fierce election campaign. The battle is particularly intense between incumbent MLA Sunil Tingre (NCP) and former MLA Bapusaheb Pathare (NCP Sharad Pawar group), creating a compelling contest within the Nationalist Congress Party itself.
Tingre, representing the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, is highlighting his accomplishments during his tenure. Pathare, having recently joined the NCP Sharad Pawar group, is focusing on local issues and leveraging the support of Sharad Pawar. The BJP’s former MLA, Jagdish Muleek, also remains a significant presence, actively campaigning despite the BJP’s alliance with the NCP for this seat.
The constituency, traditionally a Nationalist Congress Party stronghold, swung to the BJP in 2014 before Tingre secured a narrow victory in 2019 by a mere 4,975 votes. This year, the close contest is further fueled by the presence of Pathare, splitting the NCP vote and challenging Tingre’s dominance. Other contenders include Hulgesh Chalvadi (BSP) and Advocate Vivek Londhe (Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi), who are also expected to garner significant support.
The campaign is employing traditional methods like rallies and door-to-door visits. Key issues being debated include the development of infrastructure in newly-included villages, the construction of a flyover and underpass at Kharadi Chowk, and addressing local concerns. The race promises a tight contest between the MVA and the BJP-NCP alliance, with the outcome remaining uncertain until the votes are counted. A total of 16 candidates are contesting the election, down from the initial 24 after several candidates withdrew their nominations.
First Piper 