“The Work We Did Has Been Lost, Money Has Won”: Aba Bagul Reacts to Unexpected Electoral Defeat
Pune, 16th January 2026: In the wake of the Pune Municipal Corporation election results, former Deputy Mayor and Shiv Sena candidate Aba Bagul expressed disappointment over his unexpected defeat from Ward No. 36 (D) – Sahakarnagar–Padmavati, stating, “The work we did has been lost, and money has won.”
Speaking after the shocking loss, Bagul lamented that citizens’ trust in the democratic process is gradually eroding. “From the announcement of the election to polling day, we witnessed widespread confusion, tension, the influence of money, and misuse of power. I had hoped that discerning voters would check such practices, but ultimately, money prevailed,” he said.
Bagul, who had won six consecutive terms, attributed his previous victories to development work in his ward and persistent focus on civic improvement. He added, “Even after facing changes in ward boundaries, my emphasis on development consistently brought electoral success. But this seventh contest, and the defeat I have had to accept, is truly unexpected.”
He also criticised alleged misuse of power by ruling authorities, saying, “It is unfortunate for democracy that incumbents could deploy significant funds and manipulate machinery to overshadow development work. While I emphasised projects and civic progress, the playing field was influenced by money and political advantage.”
Despite the loss, Bagul expressed gratitude towards voters who supported him based on his work. “I sincerely thank the wise citizens who voted for me in faith of the development I championed,” he said.
