Pune: A potential rift is emerging within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the Kothrud Assembly seat in Pune, as former City Improvement Committee chairman and ex-corporator Amol Balwadkar has announced his intention to contest the upcoming elections from this constituency.

Balwadkar’s move, which includes a strong show of support in Balewadi, signals his determination to secure the party’s nomination, even at the risk of internal discord.

The Kothrud Assembly seat is currently held by Chandrakant Patil, a senior BJP leader who is expected to be the party’s candidate in the upcoming elections. However, Balwadkar’s public declaration of interest has sparked speculation of a potential power struggle within the party.

Reports indicate that the Kothrud constituency is likely to remain with the BJP as part of the Mahayuti alliance. With former Kothrud representatives Murlidhar Mohol and Medha Kulkarni now engaged in roles in Delhi, Patil’s candidacy seemed certain. However, Balwadkar’s unexpected bid has complicated the situation, raising concerns of internal conflict.

Medha Kulkarni, the previous MLA from Kothrud, had her candidacy withdrawn in favor of Chandrakant Patil in the last election cycle, a decision that had also caused controversy. Now, with Balwadkar, a local corporator, stepping forward, the BJP faces a potential internal rift as the party navigates candidate selection for the Kothrud seat.

Balwadkar’s confidence in his candidacy is evident. “The BJP will consider my merit while selecting candidates,” he stated, expressing faith that the party leadership would support his bid. However, he also issued a veiled warning, indicating that he may reconsider his options if the party does not back him.