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Fadnavis's criticism: Elections cannot be won with 'freebie' promises, mocks Ajit Pawar's assurance
Pune, January 12, 2026 - Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis mocked Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's announcement of 'free metro travel'. He said that elections cannot be won with such 'freebie' promises. Fadnavis made this statement while speaking at the 'Dialogue with Punekars' program, in the context of the Pune Municipal Corporation elections.
Fadnavis said, "I too could have announced 'free air travel for women in Pune'. Anyone can make any announcement, but it has to be convincing and credible." He stated that the metro is a joint project of the central and state governments, and the power to decide ticket prices rests with the coordination committee. Punekars want quality and excellent service, not free service, and they are ready to pay for it.
In the program, Fadnavis also commented on the development of Pune. He said, "The 'Pune Growth Hub' concept is being implemented to increase Pune's GDP from $78 billion to $280 billion. Action will also be taken against the rising crime in the city. Punekars will not forgive those who give tickets to criminals."
Ajit Pawar had announced free metro travel for women in his manifesto for the Pune Municipal Corporation elections. Fadnavis's criticism has heated up the political atmosphere. Fadnavis stated that the BJP and Shiv Sena are fighting together, and there is a friendly competition with the Nationalist Congress Party.
Discussions were also held on Pune's water, environment, public transport, and river rejuvenation projects. Fadnavis assured that efforts are underway for the sustainable development of the city.
Pune, January 12, 2026 - Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis mocked Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's announcement of 'free metro travel'. He said that elections cannot be won with such 'freebie' promises. Fadnavis made this statement while speaking at the 'Dialogue with Punekars' program, in the context of the Pune Municipal Corporation elections.
Fadnavis said, "I too could have announced 'free air travel for women in Pune'. Anyone can make any announcement, but it has to be convincing and credible." He stated that the metro is a joint project of the central and state governments, and the power to decide ticket prices rests with the coordination committee. Punekars want quality and excellent service, not free service, and they are ready to pay for it.
In the program, Fadnavis also commented on the development of Pune. He said, "The 'Pune Growth Hub' concept is being implemented to increase Pune's GDP from $78 billion to $280 billion. Action will also be taken against the rising crime in the city. Punekars will not forgive those who give tickets to criminals."
Ajit Pawar had announced free metro travel for women in his manifesto for the Pune Municipal Corporation elections. Fadnavis's criticism has heated up the political atmosphere. Fadnavis stated that the BJP and Shiv Sena are fighting together, and there is a friendly competition with the Nationalist Congress Party.
Discussions were also held on Pune's water, environment, public transport, and river rejuvenation projects. Fadnavis assured that efforts are underway for the sustainable development of the city.
Fadnavis said, "I too could have announced 'free air travel for women in Pune'. Anyone can make any announcement, but it has to be convincing and credible." He stated that the metro is a joint project of the central and state governments, and the power to decide ticket prices rests with the coordination committee. Punekars want quality and excellent service, not free service, and they are ready to pay for it.
In the program, Fadnavis also commented on the development of Pune. He said, "The 'Pune Growth Hub' concept is being implemented to increase Pune's GDP from $78 billion to $280 billion. Action will also be taken against the rising crime in the city. Punekars will not forgive those who give tickets to criminals."
Ajit Pawar had announced free metro travel for women in his manifesto for the Pune Municipal Corporation elections. Fadnavis's criticism has heated up the political atmosphere. Fadnavis stated that the BJP and Shiv Sena are fighting together, and there is a friendly competition with the Nationalist Congress Party.
Discussions were also held on Pune's water, environment, public transport, and river rejuvenation projects. Fadnavis assured that efforts are underway for the sustainable development of the city.
