Pune: As the Assembly elections in Pune concluded with successful polling in eight constituencies, candidates and their supporters have momentarily stepped away from the political hustle.

Following an intense campaign season, they have taken time to unwind, reflecting on voter turnout and enjoying personal time before the results on Nov 23.

Once polling ended on Nov 20, candidates gathered to analyze ward-wise voter turnout statistics, snack on local delicacies, and make early predictions about potential victories.

Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were securely stored in a government facility at Koregaon Park, under vigilant monitoring to prevent tampering. Some candidates stayed overnight outside the warehouse to ensure the security of the machines.

The campaign trail over recent months saw candidates conducting rallies, corner meetings, and strategic reviews of opposition efforts. However, with two days before the results, many have embraced the rare opportunity to relax.

• Sunil Tingre, NCP candidate from Wadgaon Sheri, went on a two-day trip to Konkan with friends.

• Prashant Jagtap, NCP candidate from Hadapsar, traveled with his wife to Solapur district and enjoyed local delicacies.

• Hemant Rasane, BJP candidate from Kasba Peth, spent his day walking around Mandai and meeting locals.

• Ravindra Dhangekar, Congress candidate, visited his farm in Yavat after two months.

• Other candidates like Ashwini Jagtap (NCP) and independent Aaba Bagul prioritized spending time with family and engaging in casual discussions with locals.

As counting day approaches, speculation has reached a fever pitch. Increased voter turnout in all constituencies has sparked discussions about its impact on results.

Heated debates among party workers and political observers continue, with each constituency buzzing with theories about potential outcomes.