Pune: Former corporator Amol Balwadkar publicly challenged Minister of Higher and Technical Education Chandrakant Patil during a massive rally held in Balewadi on October 6.

Balwadkar, who has been a dedicated member of the party for over a decade, voiced his frustration with party leaders for threatening him when he expressed his desire to contest for the legislative assembly seat in the upcoming elections.

Speaking in front of a crowd of over 40,000 supporters, Balwadkar recounted how he had worked tirelessly for the party, dedicating his time and efforts to its growth.

However, he claimed that once party leaders learned of his aspirations to run for the Kothrud assembly seat, they began distancing themselves from him and even issued threats to expel him from the party.

Balwadkar highlighted the overwhelming support he has received from the citizens, stating that it was their demands that inspired him to run for the assembly.

"The people have planted the seed of ambition in my heart, and I will not back down. With the blessings of the citizens, I fear no threats," Balwadkar declared.

During the rally, Balwadkar took an unconventional approach by inviting ordinary citizens—domestic workers, street food vendors, laborers, and senior citizens—on stage and honoring them as his chief guests.

He referred to them as the "true Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers," a move that resonated deeply with the crowd. The event, dubbed the "Janashirwad Rally," also featured Diwali gift distribution, with over 40,000 citizens receiving festive tokens.