PMC Polls 2026: Young Leader Jayesh Murkute Challenges Established Politics in Ward No. 9
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Baner, 1st January 2026: Ahead of the upcoming Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) elections, political activity in Ward No. 9—covering Baner, Balewadi, Pashan, Sutarwadi, Someshwarwadi, Sus and Mahalunge—has intensified with the growing prominence of 24-year-old leader Jayesh Sanjay Murkute.
Speaking about his political journey, Murkute said that he had faced sustained pressure and opposition from various quarters but chose not to deviate from his path. “There were several attempts to sideline me politically. However, I decided to continue raising issues related to corruption, injustice and governance, because people in the ward expect accountability,” Murkute said.
Murkute, who has gained attention for openly criticising alleged wrongdoing and administrative lapses, said he believes politics should prioritise public interest over political convenience. “I have never believed in remaining silent for the sake of political survival. If something is wrong, it needs to be spoken about,” he added.
His growing influence has also been acknowledged by senior leaders of the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar faction). Murkute said that party chief Sharad Pawar and MP Supriya Sule had encouraged him to continue his work at the grassroots level. “Their trust has strengthened my resolve to work honestly and stay connected with people on the ground,” he said.
Political observers note that Murkute’s rise as an OBC leader in Ward No. 9 has altered local political dynamics and is likely to intensify competition within rival factions, particularly within the NCP, in the PMC polls.
Residents in the ward say issues such as transparency in civic works, basic infrastructure, and public accountability have gained prominence in recent months. With the election approaching, Ward No. 9 is expected to witness a closely watched contest as new leadership challenges established political players.
