Pune: In what is set to be a significant political event, Sharad Pawar will hold a grand rally in Pimpri-Chinchwad on July 20, signaling a major show of strength in the stronghold traditionally associated with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.

City President Tushar Kamthe has confirmed that the rally will see the attendance of 20,000 party workers and officials.

Pimpri-Chinchwad, long known for its close ties with Ajit Pawar, credited with much of the city's development, is witnessing a shift in political dynamics following the split in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

Ajit Pawar's influence appears to be diminishing as many of his staunch supporters are now leaning towards the Sharad Pawar faction, especially with the Lok Sabha elections over and the Assembly and Municipal Corporation elections on the horizon.

In preparation for these upcoming elections, the Sharad Pawar faction is mobilizing its forces and aims to consolidate both veteran and new supporters.

Tushar Kamthe stated that Sharad Pawar's rally would be held at a prominent location in the city, bringing together experienced and new members to strengthen their position in all three Assembly constituencies of Pimpri-Chinchwad.

Kamthe also asserted that a significant majority, about ninety percent, of former municipal councilors from the Ajit Pawar faction are now in talks with the Sharad Pawar faction.

This shift could potentially escalate the challenges faced by the Ajit Pawar faction in the near future, marking a crucial juncture in the city's political landscape.

Ex-MLA Vilas Lande (Ajit Pawar faction) from Bhosari is also in communication with Sharad Pawar. Following the announcement that Pimpri-Chinchwad City President Ajit Gawhane would join the Sharad Pawar faction, two more leaders, State Vice President Vishal Wakadkar and Pimpri Assembly President Vishal Kalbhor, have also switched allegiances.