“These Are Mere Political Tactics, I Am Not Afraid!” – Former Corporator Moreshwar Bhondwe

Pimpri-Chinchwad | Former corporator of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Moreshwar Bhondwe, has been accused through some media outlets of illegally constructing an office on Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC)-owned land in Sector 29. However, Bhondwe has strongly refuted these allegations, claiming they are politically motivated and driven by revenge.

Bhondwe stated, “It’s being claimed that the land is two acres, but in reality, it’s only one acre. The land was transferred from the planning authority to the municipal corporation. There were 15-foot-deep pits on the land, which were filled using contributions from citizens. Since there was no budget, we took the initiative ourselves.”

He further clarified, “This office is not my private property. It belongs to around 550 senior citizens from Vikas Nagar, Walhekarwadi, Mauli, Tirthrup, and Celestial City. Daily activities like yoga, painting, and devotional programs are conducted here. There was no place to sit during rain or sun, so a temporary shed was erected,” he said.

Every morning, around 100 to 150 senior men and women gather here for yoga. In the evening, cultural programs such as Zumba dance classes, painting workshops, devotional singing, and spiritual discourses are organized. Since there is no other public ground in the vicinity, this place has become a vital space for everyone—from children to senior citizens. It also hosts games like badminton and football, serving as a recreational hub for local residents.

Municipal Approval Documents Available
The two tin sheds and the senior citizens’ office constructed at the recreation center site are fully authorized, and the required plan sanction documents have been submitted to the municipal corporation, according to the concerned officials. It has been noted that misinformation about the unauthorized nature of the shed and office is being spread. However, all constructions have been carried out with official approval from the PCMC. Copies of all necessary documents have been submitted to the corporation. Local residents have expressed satisfaction that these facilities have greatly supported community activities.

“Weekly Market is Authorized”
“The weekly market here is not unauthorized. It is registered with the municipal corporation and continues to operate to meet the needs of the citizens,” Bhondwe said, firmly asserting that the controversy is politically motivated. “Those who made the allegations recently attended my birthday celebration with a bouquet. I work for the 3,500 senior citizens in this ward. They cannot stand that, which is why such accusations are being made,” he alleged.

“No One Can Stand Against the Truth”
Bhondwe said, “Let those who made the accusations present any evidence. Show even a single proof that I used the land for personal use—then we’ll consider the matter. Otherwise, this is all political scheming.” When asked if he would take legal action for defamation, he responded, “I won’t comment on that right now, but will decide at the right time.” The controversy has caused great unease among the senior citizens associated with the center. “We have contributed over the years, and now someone is trying to demolish this for political reasons,” said one elderly member. Another added, “This place is the foundation of our lives. Where else are we supposed to go?”