PCMC: Shatrughna (Bapu) Kate Appointed as BJP Pimpri-Chinchwad City President

Pimpri-Chinchwad: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has officially appointed former corporator Shatrughna alias Bapu Kate as the new City President of BJP Pimpri-Chinchwad. The declaration was made today by Maharashtra BJP President Chandrashekhar Bawankule, following a formal selection process.

Strategic Appointment Ahead of Municipal Elections
With the upcoming Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) elections, the appointment of a strong, local, and organizationally rooted leader has been of paramount importance for the party. Bapu Kate’s selection comes after an internal election held by the city BJP committee. The results were then finalized and announced at the state level.

Kate emerged as the chosen candidate among several prominent contenders, including former ruling leader Namdev Dhake, former PCNTDA Chairman Sadashiv Khade, and ex-General Secretary Raju Durge.

Close Aide of Late MLA Laxman Jagtap
Bapu Kate, a three-term corporator, is widely known as a staunch supporter of the late BJP MLA Laxman Jagtap. His name was often considered for key posts such as the Mayor or Standing Committee Chairman during Jagtap’s tenure. After Jagtap’s demise, Kate was regarded as a natural political successor in local BJP circles.

From Rebellion to Leadership: A Political Turnaround
During the last assembly election, Kate, along with 13 former corporators, had expressed dissent demanding a candidate outside the Jagtap family. This led to intervention from senior leaders Devendra Fadnavis and Chandrashekhar Bawankule, following which Kate was appointed as the Executive President of the city BJP committee. His elevation to the City President post marks a significant milestone in his political journey.

A Grassroots Leader with Strong Organizational Skills
Kate is seen as a disciplined, well-cultured, and efficient grassroots leader. His appointment is being interpreted as a strategic move to counter the growing influence of Ajit Pawar-led NCP in the region. Many loyal BJP workers had supported Namdev Dhake, but the leadership ultimately chose Kate for his on-ground connect and organizational strengths.

Future Prospects in Expanding Assembly Segments
With the Pimpri-Chinchwad assembly region likely to be divided into two segments in the near future, Bapu Kate is being viewed as a potential candidate for one of the seats. His new role as City President positions him strategically for greater responsibilities within the party.