Pune: Former BJP Corporator Amol Balwadkar has offered his full support to Chandrakant Patil, the official candidate of Bharatiya Janata Party from Kothrud Assembly Constituency.
Balwadkar had earlier also expressed his intent to run for the assembly seat, and had made several allegations against Patil. Balwadkar had also threatened to contest as an independent candidate in case of BJP denying him the candidacy.
Balwadkar and Patil met publicly, exchanging sweets in a gesture of unity, and Balwadkar soon issued a statement affirming his support for Patil.
Balwadkar clarified that his concerns were resolved following intervention from BJP Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, stating that he would now assist with Patil’s campaign.
Balwadkar expressed pride in his BJP affiliation, emphasizing the party's commitment to “Nation First, then Party, and Self Last.” He added that he consulted his supporters and local residents before withdrawing his candidacy and would continue working for the welfare of the constituency.
Chandrakant Patil now faces a three-way election in Kothrud, with the MNS fielding Kishor Shinde and the Shiv Sena’s Thackeray faction nominating Chandrakant Mokate.
With Balwadkar’s support secured, Patil and his team are re-focusing on campaigning, hoping to maintain the BJP’s standing in the constituency.
Balwadkar’s entry into the race had created some tension within the party, particularly as he criticized Patil during a press conference, claiming that the senior BJP leader was unhappy with his aspirations to contest from Kothrud.
Balwadkar, a local from Kothrud, held that an “outsider” candidate was less suitable for the constituency’s needs and hinted at possible rebellion if denied the nomination.
BJP State President Chandrashekhar Bawankule personally met with Balwadkar to ease tensions, though Balwadkar initially maintained his dissatisfaction, awaiting the official candidate list.
