Pune: Former Minister of State for Home Ramesh Bagwe, representing the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition, confidently declared victory in Pune's Cantonment constituency, citing strong public support and unity among coalition parties.

Bagwe, who filed his nomination amidst a grand rally and cheers, stated, "Despite BJP’s efforts, voters have shown them the door. Our victory in Pune Cantonment is assured."

The day began with Bagwe seeking blessings at the Shri Bhavani Mata temple, where he offered a saree and garland to the deity, accompanied by his wife.

Following this, he led a rally through Bhavani Peth to the Zilla Parishad building, where he officially filed his nomination. The procession, marked by drumbeats, fireworks, and banners, included a large number of supporters waving flags from Maha Vikas Aghadi, India Front, and allied parties.

Bagwe voiced his concerns over issues in the constituency, including traffic congestion, healthcare deficiencies, and water shortages, criticizing BJP for disrupting social harmony and contributing to rising crime.

"The people will ensure BJP's exit and secure our win," he said, addressing supporters during the rally.

Prominent Congress leaders and MVA affiliates accompanied Bagwe, including Jagdish Thakur, city president Arvind Shinde, MLA Ravindra Dhangekar, senior leader Abhay Chhajed, and former MLA Deepti Chavadhary.

Pune Cantonment’s Vice-President Gautam Mahajan, along with education and civic leaders, were present, along with a strong showing from NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) leaders and members of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray).

The rally, commencing from the Shri Bhavani Mata temple, drew large crowds, with slogans like "Ekach Vaada, Ramesh Dada, victory to the Maha Vikas Aghadi!" and a jubilant display of party flags. Ganesh Mandals and community groups showered Bagwe with flowers, and women performed traditional rituals to welcome him.