Pune: With internal rebellions surging in the city, district, and Pimpri-Chinchwad constituencies, leaders from all major parties have been making efforts to appease disgruntled candidates who have filed independent nominations.
Leaders are offering assurances that the party will "ensure justice in the future" if they withdraw, though rebels are standing firm, stating their intent to contest after years without recognition. The final decision on who withdraws will become clear by Monday, November 4.
In Pune’s 21 assembly constituencies, over 50 rebels have submitted nominations across 19 constituencies, with the notable exceptions of Baramati and Wadgaon Sheri.
High-profile candidates from both the Maha Vikas Aghadi and Mahayuti alliances have defied the party line, filing nominations in constituencies like Purandar, Bhor, Indapur, Maval, and Kasba. Party leaders are now working urgently to persuade these candidates to step back.
Several political leaders from parties such as the Shiv Sena, NCP, Congress, BJP, and their factions are making calls to convey that "withdrawal will benefit both you and the party."
However, many rebels have held strong to their stance, explaining that they have worked within the party for decades with no acknowledgment, and feel it is now their time to contest independently. Some have even asked local officials to avoid further contact or interference.
In an additional twist, both alliances have employed a pressure strategy, suggesting, "Withdraw your rebels, and we’ll withdraw ours." This game of political bargaining is expected to continue up until the Monday deadline.
