Pune: No Bid for Shirur Lok Sabha Ticket! Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil Defers Decision to Party Leadership

Pune: Former Shiv Sena MP Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil has made it clear that he has neither sought a party ticket for the Shirur Lok Sabha Constituency nor has any announcement been made regarding his candidacy. Stepping back from the forefront of the race, Adhalrao Patil has expressed his willingness to abide by the decision of the party chief, indicating his acceptance of whatever choice is made.

Addressing the media during a press conference for the MHADA housing draw, Adhalrao Patil refrained from laying claim to his traditional Shirur Lok Sabha seat, deferring to the authority of the party leadership. Despite persistent queries regarding a potential offer from the NCP for the Lok Sabha seat, he evaded giving a direct response, emphasising the finality of the party chief’s decision.

Speculation surrounds the allocation of the Shirur Lok Sabha seat within the state Mahayuti alliance, with talks suggesting it may be ceded to the NCP led by Ajit Pawar. Adhalrao Patil, who has served as MP from the constituency for three terms, had previously expressed interest in contesting from this seat. However, his prospects appear dim following his appointment as the Chairman of the Pune MHADA Board, a move reportedly influenced by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Despite previous assertions of his intent to contest from Shirur and the encouragement of party workers, Adhalrao Patil’s recent stance has surprised many. It is speculated that his decision may be influenced by indications that the Shirur Lok Sabha seat could be allotted to the NCP under the prevailing MP formula, with Amol Kolhe currently representing the seat for the NCP.

Recent interactions, including a visit by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to Adhalrao Patil’s institute in Manchar, have fuelled discussions about his potential candidature on an NCP ticket. However, public opposition from NCP party workers and MLAs has complicated matters. Adhalrao Patil has expressed readiness to adhere to the Mahayuti alliance’s decisions and has not ruled out contesting on an NCP ticket if asked, though he remains puzzled by the opposition from party workers.

Earlier, Shiv Sena UBT leader Sachin Ahir had criticised Adhalrao for sitting in Ajit Pawar’s car. When asked about it, Adhalrao said, “I don’t think it’s fair that I would respond to Ahir’s criticism.” Adhalrao also said that there is no need to pay heed to Ahir’s words, as he himself has come to Shivsena from the NCP.