Political Chaos in Pune: Maharashtra CM’s Remarks on Industries Facing ‘Dadagiri’ Spark Controversy and Questions from Opposition
Reported by Varad Bhatkhande
Pune, 3rd August 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently stated that Pune’s development is being hampered by ‘dadagiri’ (bullying) faced by local industries. His remarks have triggered a political stir, with opposition leaders, particularly from the Nationalist Congress Party – Sharadchandra Pawar (NCP-SP), including Supriya Sule and Rohit Pawar, demanding answers from the Chief Minister.
What Did the CM Say?
Speaking at an event in Pune on Friday, Fadnavis said, “Pune’s business sector is experiencing dadagiri, pressure over whom to award contracts and at what rates to conduct business. Until this mentality ends, Pune will not develop.” He described this as the biggest bottleneck in Pune’s progress. As Fadnavis holds both the Chief Minister and Home Minister positions, the opposition has seized on his comments, raising several pointed questions.
NCP-SP Demands Names and Action
Baramati MP Supriya Sule responded, “If the State’s Home Minister believes that dadagiri is blocking investments in Pune, what action has he taken? If you know bullying is happening, stop it. We will support you. The CM should reveal who is behind this dadagiri. I appreciate his honesty in acknowledging the lack of investment, but who is responsible? The CM must answer.”
Meanwhile, Karjat Jamkhed MLA Rohit Pawar added, “If dadagiri is happening in Pune’s MIDCs, it should be clarified, does it involve BJP, Ajit Pawar’s NCP, or Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena? If, as CM, you admit bullying is taking place, you should name those responsible.”
Mahayuti Government Responds
In response to these criticisms, CM Fadnavis reiterated that he will not tolerate any such bullying. “I am going to break this dadagiri. Anyone willing to help me in this effort is welcome,” he said, indirectly addressing Sule’s remarks.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also defended the government. Speaking in Mangaon, he stated that Maharashtra will not tolerate dadagiri anywhere. He said police commissioners in Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the Pune Rural SP have been instructed to file cases against anyone, regardless of political affiliation, who harasses industries or creates obstacles. “If repeat offenders don’t stop after multiple FIRs, action should be taken under MCOCA,” he added. Pawar stressed that the state government is fully committed to supporting industrialists and maintaining law and order across Maharashtra.
Concerns from the Industries Association
Dileep Batwal, CEO of the Federation of Chakan Industries, told Punekar News, “Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is right. Competition should be fair, but due to dadagiri, it isn’t. It affects operations, and sometimes deserving workers are sidelined. If locals offer good work, they should have opportunities, but quality must improve.
He continued saying, “The CM’s statements reflect the reality. However, those causing trouble invoke political names. There should be efforts from the administration to address such issues. Police have been directed to take action; let’s hope this has a positive impact. It’s important to note that not all locals are involved in such practices, but unfortunately, the actions of a few tarnish the reputation of many.”
