Pune: Senior BJP leader Ujjwal Keskar, a three-time corporator and former opposition leader of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), has expressed his determination to contest in the upcoming state assembly elections.
Keskar has urged the BJP leadership to consider him for a ticket from either the Shivajinagar or Kothrud assembly constituencies. If denied a party nomination, Keskar hinted at the possibility of running as an independent candidate.
Keskar, who has been distanced from the central BJP faction in recent years, previously rebelled in 2009 when the Kothrud assembly seat was allocated to the Shiv Sena. Running as an independent candidate, Keskar faced defeat.
In 2012, he launched the 'Pune Janhit Aghadi' to contest the PMC elections, but the results were not as anticipated. Although he rejoined the BJP in 2014, Keskar has not been particularly active in local party activities.
Now, with renewed political ambition, Keskar has approached senior BJP figures like MLA Pankaja Munde, Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol, and Minister Chandrakant Patil, requesting their support for his candidacy in either the Shivajinagar or Kothrud constituencies.
In a recent interview, Keskar explained his decision, citing the need for more proactive and accountable leadership in Pune. "Many controversial decisions have been made in the city in recent years. My colleagues and I have consistently raised our voices through proper legal channels. However, constantly seeking relief from the courts is not a sustainable solution in a democratic system," Keskar said.
He highlighted his involvement in various civic issues, including opposing unjust taxes on residents in areas like Nanded City and Paud Phata Road, as well as fighting against the 100-meter no-development zone around Shaniwar Wada.
Keskar also took a stand against the 'UDCPR,' which he believes will negatively impact Pune's urban landscape. Additionally, he actively campaigned against what he called an illegal development plan for 23 villages and opposed a land transfer near Sassoon Hospital to a private developer.
Keskar further stated, "It is a tragedy that a minister has to use his personal funds to fill potholes. The role of a public representative is essential, and citizens need someone who can effectively address their concerns."
As Keskar sets his sights on an assembly seat, he remains committed to his cause, even if it means contesting as an independent candidate. His decision has stirred interest within the local political landscape, particularly in the Shivajinagar and Kothrud areas.