Pimpri Chinchwad: NCP’s Yogesh Behl Criticizes Sitting MLA Anna Bansode, Pushes For Fresh Face

Reported By Varad Bhatkhande

Pimpri, 22nd October 2024: After the Chinchwad Constituency, the Pimpri Constituency is also expected to witness political drama. Until recently, it seemed that sitting MLA Anna Bansode of the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) was the sole contender for the ticket. However, the newly appointed Pimpri Chinchwad City President of the NCP, Yogesh Behl, has expressed dissatisfaction with Bansode’s performance and has called for a new candidate. In a press conference, Behl, who replaced former city president Ajit Gavhane after he sought a ticket for the Bhosari Constituency, openly criticized the incumbent MLA.

Behl revealed that several people have expressed interest in the nomination, including MLA Anna Bansode, former corporator Kaluram Pawar, and Jitendra Nanaware. He also mentioned that Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader and former MLA Gautam Chabukswar had met with both Ajit Pawar and Behl, showing interest in contesting. Additionally, the Republican Party of India – Athawale (RPI-A) faction’s Chandrakanta Sonkamble is eager to join the party, and former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) corporator Seema Sawale has actively sought a nomination. BJP’s Rajesh Pillay and Tejaswini Kadam have also met with Ajit Pawar. Through these remarks, Behl indirectly indicated that Bansode’s candidacy may not be guaranteed or straightforward.

Behl continued, mentioning how office bearers from other parties are in discussions with Ajit Pawar and that it is Pawar’s responsibility to choose the candidate for Pimpri. He added that a candidate would be finalized within two days. Referring to the discontent surrounding MLA Bansode, Behl noted that Bansode’s health issues have kept him from meeting people, leading to disappointment among some constituents. “Pimpri’s seat will not be wasted under any circumstances. Necessary efforts will be made to ensure that. The candidature will be based on evaluation and electability,” Behl stated.

Further criticizing MLA Bansode, Yogesh Behl mentioned that Bansode does not involve corporators in decision-making. He reiterated that there is a demand within the party for a new face in Pimpri, emphasizing that the NCP will retain the MLA seat there. “Regardless of who the new MLA is, it is my responsibility to ensure they perform,” Behl remarked. He also mentioned that MP Shrirang Barane shares the opinion that a capable candidate should be nominated. “If a change is necessary, nominate Jitendra Nanaware. MP Barane assured me that he will work hard towards this,” Behl added.