Pune: Sanjay Raut Flags Civic, Environmental Issues During First PMC Visit
Pune: Sanjay Raut Flags Civic, Environmental Issues During First PMC Visit
Pune, April 29, 2026: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut visited the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) headquarters on Wednesday, marking his first visit to the civic building despite frequent trips to Pune over the years.
During his visit, Raut spoke about the role of public representatives, saying that true democracy is reflected not in the number of elected members a party has, but in the work done for the city. He stressed that every corporator, regardless of party strength, should be given equal importance in decision-making.
Referring to discussions with Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol, Raut said those holding key positions, including guardian ministers, must focus on the city’s development rather than political differences. He added that governance in Maharashtra once followed this approach, but that spirit has weakened over time.
Raut also raised concerns about environmental damage, pointing to increasing tree cutting and its long-term impact. He said development should not come at the cost of nature and highlighted similar issues seen in places like Aarey in Mumbai and mining regions such as Chandrapur. He credited Aaditya Thackeray for earlier efforts to oppose large-scale tree felling and urged citizens to stay alert on environmental matters.
On the issue of Marathi language and identity, Raut accused the BJP of failing to take a clear stand. He questioned whether leaders like Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis have done enough to protect regional identity, adding that silence on such issues weakens the state’s cultural foundation.
