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BJP candidate Murlidhar Mohol on Thursday filed his nomination papers for the Pune Lok Sabha seat. NCP candidate Shivajirao Adhalrao-Patil filed his nomination papers for Shirur constituency.
The BJP took out a massive rally from Kothrud to Deccan in Pune as part of its road show before Mohol filed his nomination papers, leading to traffic congestion in Deccan, Karve Road and Shivajinagar area.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, State minister Chandrakant Patil and Shiv Sena leader Neelam Gorhe were among those present for the rally.
Speaking to reporters, Fadnavis said, “The massive turn out for Mohol’s nomination reflects his popularity in Pune. His victory is a forgone conclusion. The BJP has been winning the Pune seat and it will keep the momentum going.”
Crediting Mohol for pushing Pune city’s development, Fadnavis said,”Mohol’s initiatives have helped fast-track Pune’s development.”
BJP spokesperson Sandeep Khardekar said over 50,000 people were present when the rally was taken out in the city on Thursday. ”Several top leaders of the alliance partners were present on the occasion. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was also present but he left early as he had to attend the nomination filing of NCP candidate Shivajirao Adhalrao-Patil,” he said.
Meanwhile, Adhalrao filed his nomination papers for Shirur Lok Sabha seat. Several top Sena leaders and of other alliance partners, including Ajit Pawar, were present when Adhalrao was filing his nomination.
Adhalrao is contesting for the fifth time. He had secured a hat-trick but lost the fourth time to Amol Kolhe from Shirur seat. Kolhe, who is NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) candidate, filed his nomination earlier this week.