budget for the 2025-26Special Correspondent
Pune: As the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) gears up to present its budget for the 2025-26 financial year in early March, administrative discussions have intensified. Speculation is rife about potential political influence on fund allocation, with ruling party leaders reportedly lobbying for significant financial provisions for their proposed projects.
Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale’s recent visit to the ‘VIP’ office in the Legislative Building for budget-related meetings has sparked debate among PMC officials. Concerns have emerged regarding alleged political pressure, with opposition parties claiming that nearly ₹2,000 crores could be set aside for specific leaders. However, Dr. Bhosale has assured that the budget is being drafted without undue interference.
“We are receiving numerous suggestions from political leaders and officials, and they will be reviewed accordingly. The budget will be presented in the first week of March,” he stated.
Political Push for Development Funds
With municipal elections on the horizon, citizens have voiced dissatisfaction over inadequate infrastructure, leading to an increase in complaints. Former corporators have submitted various proposals, while city MLAs have reportedly recommended development projects valued between ₹400-500 crores for their respective constituencies.
Ruling coalition leaders are allegedly being prioritized in budget allocations, with funds expected to be directed toward essential civic projects such as road construction, sewage system upgrades, streetlight installations, underground electrical cable work, park maintenance, playground equipment installations, and the deployment of CCTV cameras across the city.
The city comprises five ruling coalition MLAs and one opposition MLA. Last month, MLAs actively lobbied at the PMC office, urging swift implementation of delayed projects and formally submitting requests for development initiatives. Former corporators, now with limited political leverage, have aligned with MLAs to advocate for budget allocations ranging from ₹10 crores to ₹40 crores for various proposals.
Concerns Over Political Interference
Voicing concerns about potential bias in the budget allocation process, former corporator Sanjay Balgude emphasized the need for transparency.
“The Municipal Commissioner must ensure that the budget is prepared without external pressure and solely in the interest of the public. Conducting budget meetings in the VIP office of the Legislative Building raises questions about the PMC’s independence. If ten city leaders are demanding ₹2,000 crores, then we might as well draft the budget in the ministry itself,” he remarked.
As discussions continue, all eyes remain on the upcoming budget presentation to see whether financial decisions will be guided by civic needs or political influence.
