Pune: Rebel candidate Nana Kate from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) filed his nomination as an independent candidate today for the Chinchwad Assembly constituency amid a strong show of support from party members and supporters.

Kate, known for his bold stance within the NCP, has emerged as a key independent voice by running as a candidate after the recent party ticket decisions.

The rally supporting his nomination began with a visit to the Mahadev Temple in Pimple Saudagar, followed by a road procession joined by many former corporators and supporters.

Notable participants included Prashant Shitole, Vinod Nadhe, Santosh Kokane, Usha Mai Kale, Haribhau Tikone, and several other prominent figures from Chinchwad. Kate then proceeded to the election office, where he officially submitted his candidacy.

Kate addressed the media after filing his nomination, emphasizing that he has the backing of the public, making this election less challenging for him. He expressed confidence, stating, "The people of Chinchwad are with me, and this battle will not be tough."

He mentioned that he does not see his rivals, Maha Vikas Aghadi candidate Rahul Kalate and Mahayuti candidate Shankar Jagtap, as serious threats.

According to Kate, the Chinchwad assembly seat was given to a candidate who had lost his deposit in a previous election, a decision he questioned.

"I am in the race for the comprehensive development of Chinchwad," he stated, adding that he had initially sought a ticket from Maha Vikas Aghadi but alleged that local leaders granted the ticket to Kalate without senior leadership's input.

In the last election, Kate secured one lakh votes, and he confidently believes that he will gain more support this time due to his longstanding commitment to the constituency's welfare.