A major political rift has emerged in the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) as the BJP moves to divert ₹5 crore allocated for the development of Baner, the ward of NCP corporator Amol Balwadkar.

  • BJP passed a proposal to divert ₹5 crore meant for local area development in Baner.
  • The move follows a dispute between NCP corporator Amol Balwadkar and BJP leadership.
  • BJP leaders stated their alliance with NCP is strictly limited to the state level.

In a significant political development during the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) general body meeting on Tuesday, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) moved a proposal to divert approximately ₹5 crore. This fund was specifically allocated for local area development in the Baner ward, which is represented by NCP corporator Amol Balwadkar.

The decision comes on the heels of a heated confrontation after Balwadkar demanded an inquiry into alleged financial irregularities regarding the legislator's local area development fund in the Kothrud constituency. This constituency is represented by senior BJP minister Chandrakant Patil. Since Baner falls within Kothrud, the move is being viewed as a direct political retaliation.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this budgetary maneuver signals a deepening fracture within the ruling alliance at the local level. While the Mahayuti alliance appears stable at the state level, the friction in Pune suggests that regional power struggles and individual political ambitions are overriding collaborative governance and urban development priorities.

"The diversion of development funds for political signaling sets a dangerous precedent where civic welfare becomes a bargaining chip in partisan warfare."

During the session, BJP house leader Ganesh Bidkar addressed the tension, stating, "Our alliance with the NCP is only at the state level as they are not cooperating with us." The proposal was ultimately passed with a decisive 73 votes in favor and only 11 against, prompting a walkout by Balwadkar in protest.

The history between the protagonists adds layers to this conflict. Amol Balwadkar was previously a BJP corporator from 2017 to 2022. After a failed bid for the Kothrud Assembly seat in 2024—which he withdrew following assurances from Devendra Fadnavis—he eventually joined the Ajit Pawar-led NCP and secured re-election.

Balwadkar criticized the BJP's move, claiming they initially provided no budget for Baner, only to create a provision after NCP pressure, only to withdraw it now. He emphasized that the funds were intended for essential civic works for the residents, not for personal gain, and called the move an "injustice to the citizens."

Historical Background

The political landscape of Pune has seen significant shifts recently. The rivalry between the BJP and the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) has intensified following the 2026 civic elections, as both parties vie for dominance over the city's vast resources and administrative control.

Did You Know?: The Pune Municipal Corporation is one of the largest urban local bodies in India, managing one of the fastest-growing metropolitan economies.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why did the BJP divert the funds?
The BJP cited a lack of cooperation from the NCP at the local level, suggesting the alliance is only functional at the state government level.

2. How did the NCP respond?
NCP corporator Amol Balwadkar protested the move by walking out of the meeting, alleging that the BJP is targeting his ward for political reasons.