Pune: Barne Dismisses Opposition, Unsure of Sanjog Waghere Impact in Maval

Varad Bhatkhande

Kasarwadi, 15th April 2024: The current MP of Maval, Shrirang Barne, emphasized the importance of the national election, stating that it should not be based on personal relationships and emotional issues. Barne highlighted his connection with the constituency, referring to the 25 lakh voters in the Maval Lok Sabha constituency as his “relatives.” However, he pointed out that the focus of the election should be on the country’s future.

During a press conference held by Mahayuti in Kasarwadi on Monday (15th April), Barne commented on the challenge posed by the opposing candidate, noting that he was unsure of the identity of his competition. By stating this, Barne indirectly suggested that he did not view Sanjog Waghere from the Thackeray group as a significant threat. He clarified his remarks by saying that the candidate’s identity would be revealed after the nomination forms were filed.

The press conference aimed to provide information about the campaign and was attended by MLAs Uma Khapare, Anna Bansode, Ashwini Jagtap, former MP Amar Sable, BJP city president Shankar Jagtap, NCP city president Ajit Gavhane, Shiv Sena district chief Balasaheb Valhekar, and RPI’s Chandrakanta Sonkamble.

Panvel and Uran hosted a Mahayuti meeting, while a gathering was also held in Pimpri-Chinchwad. Mahayuti activists across the six state assembly constituencies have united and begun working together harmoniously, putting past grievances behind them. Barne expressed confidence in the unity of the Mahayuti, stating that there was no dissatisfaction within the group.

Barne also announced that his nomination form would be filed on April 22, with the Chief Minister and both Deputy Chief Ministers present for the event. Prominent state and central leaders will also participate in the campaign efforts. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is set to hold a meeting in Pimpri-Chinchwad city, while Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will host a meeting in Panvel, and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar will conduct a meeting in Maval. Barne noted that there were 7.5 lakh votes cast in the last election and expected even more votes this time around.

Ajit Gavhane emphasized the Nationalist Congress Party’s strong support for Mahayuti candidate Shrirang Barane, stating that NCP workers will strive to secure maximum votes for him. Additionally, BJP’s Amar Sable expressed confidence that MP Barne would receive more votes than in the previous two elections.