ThePrint ThePrintPOD: Why Ajit Pawar’s battle in Pune brings up flashbacks of 2017 BJP-Shiv Sena fight in Mumbai
Jan 13, 2026
Dive into the competitive landscape of Pune's local elections as Ajit Pawar faces off against the BJP, evoking memories of the intense 2017 BJP-Shiv Sena rivalry. Explore Pawar's strategic independence and his aggressive campaign tactics, including media attacks and alliance formations. The discussion highlights local governance issues and the contrasting messages of the parties involved. With family ties influencing the political narrative, there's speculation on reunifications and the weighing of local politics against broader ambitions.
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Positioning Through Aggressive Local Campaigning
- Ajit Pawar is using aggressive local campaigning to position himself as distinct from the BJP despite being an ally.
- This mirrors Shiv Sena's 2017 strategy of appearing independent to keep political options open.
Pune As Ajit Pawar's Power Play
- Ajit Pawar has concentrated in Pune district to reclaim two urban bastions and boost his political standing within Mahayuti.
- Winning Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad would strengthen his party's identity and his leverage against rivals like Eknath Shinde.
Ajit Pawar’s Early Political Moves
- Ajit Pawar entered politics as Baramati MP in 1991 and soon shifted roles to consolidate family influence.
- He then focused on Pimpri-Chinchwad, building NCP presence and holding those urban bastions until 2017.