Pune: Pimpri MLA Anna Bansode Expresses Disappointment Over Missing Cabinet Position

Pimpri Chinchwad, 20th December 2024: Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MLA from Pimpri, Anna Bansode, appears to be discontented with Ajit Pawar and the party’s high command after being overlooked for a cabinet position during the recent expansion. Bansode, who was reportedly assured that he would receive a ministerial position if he secured a third consecutive victory in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly elections, remains disappointed despite fulfilling this condition.

Currently, the Winter Session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly is underway in Nagpur, but MLA Bansode has returned to Pimpri. Explaining his early departure, he stated, “My mind was not there, so I came back.” Speaking to reporters, Bansode expressed his disappointment over not being granted a cabinet post, which he had earnestly desired. “I have been elected for the third time from the Pimpri constituency. This time, I was expecting Ajit Pawar to give me a cabinet position,” he said.

However, Bansode remains optimistic, adding, “I am sure that Ajit Dada will keep his word and trust. I was unhappy during the Winter Session as my aspiration for a ministerial post was unfulfilled. I have returned to the constituency for the people’s work. I am confident that Ajit Dada will consider me in the future. While I am disappointed now, I will work even more vigorously for the people. After that, I hope to secure a ministerial post.”

Bansode also clarified that he left the session due to a personal reason at home and had informed Ajit Pawar before returning to his constituency.

Notably, no MLA from Pimpri-Chinchwad, an industrial hub, has ever been granted a cabinet or state ministerial position. In its 40-year history, five representatives from the city have received ministerial-level corporation roles, but no one has been elevated to a cabinet or state ministership. This includes three-time Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Mahesh Landge from Bhosari and NCP’s Anna Bansode, both of whom were considered strong contenders for ministerial posts.

The Mahayuti alliance currently holds five seats in the city—three in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and two in the Maharashtra Legislative Council—strengthening its presence in Pimpri-Chinchwad. Speculation was rife that the city might secure a cabinet position ahead of the upcoming Pimpri Municipal Corporation (PCMC) elections. However, the absence of such an appointment has caused dissatisfaction among BJP and NCP leaders and workers within the Mahayuti alliance.