Pune Politics: Are Punekars Truly ‘Awake’? Shaniwarwada Namaz and Jain Boarding Land Deal Stir Political Storm Ahead of Civic Polls

Pune:
In the run-up to the Pune Municipal Corporation elections, the city has witnessed a surge of politically charged events. The recent controversies surrounding the Namaz recitation at Shaniwarwada and the Jain Boarding land transaction have ignited widespread debate across political and social circles, highlighting Pune’s shifting political landscape.

Despite the festive energy of Diwali Pahat programs across the city, a deeper question looms — are Punekars truly aware of what’s happening around them? The issue isn’t about literal awareness, but civic and political consciousness amid rising polarization.

Over the past 25 years, Pune has evolved into a near-metropolitan city. With this growth, however, the city’s politics has started reflecting a divide between “locals” and “newcomers,” influencing voting patterns and campaign strategies.

Recently, BJP MP Dr. Medha Kulkarni voiced strong opposition over the Namaz recitation at the historic Shaniwarwada, leading to police complaints and heated exchanges. In response, Rupali Patil-Thombare of the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) criticized the protest, accusing the BJP of creating communal tension for electoral gain.

Simultaneously, the Jain Boarding land deal triggered another controversy. A large protest led by Raju Shetti questioned the role of the trustees, while Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) MLA Ravindra Dhangekar alleged the involvement of BJP MP Murlidhar Mohol, intensifying political friction within the Mahayuti alliance.

Ironically, intra-alliance rivalries have become more vocal than opposition parties’ criticism. While the Congress, NCP (Sharad Pawar), and Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray) remain relatively silent, leaders within the ruling bloc are taking sharper stands against one another.

Analysts note that these controversies are diverting public attention from core civic issues such as poor roads, traffic chaos, water scarcity, and unplanned redevelopment. Pune’s identity as a city of progressivism and rationality seems overshadowed by political one-upmanship.

Unregulated redevelopment, stressed infrastructure, and rising water management challenges continue to haunt citizens — yet few leaders are addressing them. Allegations of collusion between politicians and builders remain unchallenged, raising concerns about the city’s future.

Ultimately, this phase represents more than a battle for political dominance — it’s a test of Pune’s civic consciousness. Whether Punekars can rise above partisan noise and stand for accountable governance will determine the direction of the upcoming civic elections.