Chinchwad Election: MVA’s Rahul Kalate Wraps Up Intense Campaign with Focus on Local Issues

Chinchwad, 18th November 2024: On the final day of campaigning for the Maharashtra Assembly elections, Rahul Kalate, the Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA) candidate representing the NCP faction led by Sharad Pawar, concluded his campaign with a focus on personal interactions and grassroots engagement. Over the past ten days, Kalate actively toured various parts of the constituency, reaching out to voters through bike rallies, public meetings, corner gatherings, padayatras, and personal visits to villages, settlements, and housing societies.

Throughout the campaign, voters raised concerns over unresolved local issues, including tanker traffic, inadequate civic amenities, and traffic congestion. They also expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s alleged marginalization of Marathi identity and resource shifts to Gujarat. Kalate addressed these issues during his interactions, outlining his vision for the Chinchwad constituency’s development and promising to be a representative who prioritizes people’s needs. His efforts received an enthusiastic response from citizens, leaving Kalate feeling “overwhelmed” by the support.

Senior MVA leaders lent significant weight to Kalate’s campaign, taking aim at the BJP-led Mahayuti government for corruption and neglecting local development. A roadshow led by NCP supremo Sharad Pawar altered the election atmosphere, while other prominent leaders, including state president Jayant Patil, MP Supriya Sule, MLA Rohit Pawar, and actor-turned-politician Dr. Amol Kolhe, expressed their faith in Kalate’s leadership and urged voters to give him a chance.

Adding to the momentum, Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Raut, Sachin Ahir, Congress representatives, and AAP workers conducted multiple meetings to rally support for the MVA candidate. Their collective presence stirred enthusiasm among voters, creating a strong wave of backing for Kalate.

Kalate’s campaign has garnered widespread support from numerous organizations and social groups across Chinchwad. Groups such as the Swabhimani Republican Party, Youth Republican Party, Chhawa Maratha Sena, Panther Army, Bahujan Vyaspeeth, Krantiveer Birsa Munda Tribal Social Organization, and the People’s Republican Party have pledged their backing. Key local bodies, including the Pimpri Chinchwad City District Congress Committee, the Republican Party of India (Dr. Rajendra Gavai faction), and the Minority Federation, have also voiced their support.

Rahul Kalate underscored his commitment to tackling corruption and ensuring holistic development for all sections of society. “For years, politics in Chinchwad has revolved around developing specific areas and individuals for personal gains, leaving many regions neglected. I aim to break this cycle. A generation has witnessed the legacy of development under Pawar Saheb and Congress, and my generation has fought for over 20 years on pending issues. Now, it’s time to build Chinchwad for the next generation,” he stated.

Kalate expressed confidence in the people of Chinchwad, describing them as wise and capable of discerning genuine intentions amidst political rhetoric.

Weekend Blitz: Meetings, Rallies, and Marches
Making the most of the weekend, Kalate held a series of marathon meetings and rallies. On Saturday evening, a bike rally covered Ravet, Kiwale, and Mamurdi areas, followed by public meetings. On Sunday, multiple gatherings were held, including corner meetings and events led by Dr. Amol Kolhe in Walhekarwadi, Kakade Park, and Tapkirmala Kalewadi.