Congress has chosen Ravindra Dhangekar as its candidate for the upcoming Lok Sabha election in Pune, while the BJP has fielded Murlidhar Mohol, a former mayor. In a significant move, the BJP has opted for a Maratha candidate to address the rising Maratha anger in certain parts of the constituency. As a member of the OBC community, Dhangekar’s victory in the assembly elections has instilled hope in the Congress party that he can help break their dry spell since Suresh Kalmadi’s victory in 2009.
This Lok Sabha election in Pune is expected to be closely contested between the two prominent candidates. Dhangekar’s selection as a Congress candidate brings attention to the party’s focus on selecting candidates from different communities and backgrounds in an attempt to appeal to a wider voter base. On the other hand, the BJP’s decision to bank on a Maratha candidate demonstrates their strategy to address the concerns and demands of the influential Maratha community in the constituency.
The choice of candidates in this election reflects the complexities and challenges faced by the voters of Pune. The Maratha anger has been a crucial factor influencing the political landscape in Maharashtra, and both parties have strategically acted upon it. By fielding a Brahmin candidate, the BJP attempted to strike a balance between the different communities in the constituency. However, this time, they have switched their approach and placed their bets on a Maratha candidate to gain the support of the Maratha community.
Dhangekar’s previous victory in the assembly elections has given the Congress party hope that he can break their losing streak in Pune. The party has been struggling to make a mark in the constituency since Suresh Kalmadi’s win in 2009. This election is seen as a critical opportunity for the Congress to regain their lost ground and establish a strong presence in Pune.
Both candidates will face the challenge of addressing the concerns and aspirations of the voters in Pune. The constituency has a diverse mix of urban and rural areas with varied interests and issues. Besides the factor of candidate selection, the parties will need to focus on addressing local issues, garnering public support, and presenting their vision for the development and progress of Pune.
In conclusion, the Lok Sabha election in Pune presents voters with no simple choices. The Congress party’s selection of Dhangekar, an OBC candidate, reflects their efforts to appeal to a wider voter base. Meanwhile, the BJP’s decision to field a Maratha candidate aims to address the anger and demands of the influential Maratha community. The election is crucial for both parties, with the Congress aiming to end their dry spell and the BJP striving to consolidate their support in the constituency.
