The political scene in Pune has reached a critical point with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and top BJP figures, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Minister Chandrakant Patil, engaging in a heated debate over the issue of free transport. Ajit Pawar, representing the NCP, pledged free bus and Metro services in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad in their joint manifesto, ‘Ashtasutri Pragati (Eight-Point Progress).’
In a bid to attract voters, Ajit Pawar claimed that offering free public transport is financially feasible, proposing that with specific budget allocations, free travel could be a reality within three years of NCP’s rule. This move has stirred controversy, especially after the BJP released their ‘Sankalp Patra’ focusing on a “Developed Pune,” leading to intensified political rhetoric between the two parties.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticized Ajit Pawar’s promise of free bus and metro travel, deeming it impractical and legally unviable. Fadnavis highlighted the need for realistic promises, suggesting that such commitments often arise from political insecurity rather than feasibility. He explained the technicalities behind fare determination for the Metro, emphasizing the legal authority of a dedicated committee to set ticket prices.
Fadnavis emphasized Pune residents’ preference for quality services over freebies, noting their willingness to pay for reliable and dependable transport. He stressed that Punekars value a good experience over charity and are skeptical of election-driven promises. Meanwhile, Minister Chandrakant Patil dismissed Ajit Pawar’s proposal as misleading, asserting that decisions on free transport services lie with the cabinet and the Chief Minister, not the Deputy Chief Minister.
The ongoing dispute over “free travel” is part of Ajit Pawar’s recent offensive against the BJP’s governance in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. His strategic targeting of BJP leaders and initiatives aims to challenge the party’s dominance in the upcoming local and state elections. The escalating tensions have prompted CM Fadnavis to intervene, signaling a deepening rift within the political landscape.
