Pune Municipal Corporation Budget Prepared at Divisional Commissioner’s Office in Unprecedented Move

Pune, 11th February 2025: In an unprecedented move, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Commissioner Dr Rajendra Bhosale is preparing the 2025-26 budget at the Divisional Commissioner’s office, raising eyebrows and sparking controversy among city officials and residents.

As PMC celebrates its 75th anniversary, this shift in budget preparation marks a significant break from tradition. Typically, the budget is drafted within PMC-owned offices. However, Commissioner Bhosale has been working from the Divisional Commissioner’s VIP room for the past two days with select officials to finalise the budget.

The decision has led to speculation and concern among PMC officials, questioning the need for an external venue when PMC has ample space. The move is particularly notable during a period of administrator rule in the absence of elected corporators.

Dr Bhosale, set to retire in the next few months, bears the responsibility of both presenting and approving this budget—his first and last for PMC. The timing has fuelled rumours of political motivations, especially with municipal elections approaching.

Critics argue that preparing the budget outside PMC premises may impact transparency and accessibility, potentially favouring certain areas aligned with the ruling coalition. Defenders, however, suggest it could reduce interruptions and offer a fresh perspective. The absence of an official explanation has only added to the speculation surrounding this departure from established practice.