EVEN as the Ajit Pawar-led NCP is readying its first list of candidates for the Assembly polls, the party has already distributed AB forms — which are mandatory during filing of nomination — to as many as 35 candidates. Among the 35 candidates who are certain to get nominations are “controversial” Pune MLA Sunil Tingre, who represents the Wadgaonsheri constituency, and Chetan Tupe from Hadapsar constituency. Both the constituencies are in Pune city area. Similarly, the NCP has renominated sitting MLA and minister Dilip Walse-Patil from Ambegaon, Dattatrya Bharne from Indapur and Atul Benke from Junnar, all in Pune rural constituency The party has also given AB forms to Narhari Zirwal from Dindori and Sanjay Bansode from Udgir. When contacted, NCP spokesperson Sanjay Tatkare confirmed that AB forms have been given to 35 candidates so far. “The party is planning to release the list as soon as possible,” he said. When his reaction was sought, Tingre said, “The party today explained the procedure required to fill and submit the form. My nomination is not yet confirmed. As soon as I get the green signal, I will let you know.” Tingre landed in a controversy when he allegedly rushed to help the family whose son was involved in the Porsche accident. Tingre had, however, denied all allegations. NCP sources said the party has not been able to release its list as final seat allotment has not happened so far. “The discussions are underway..,” an NCP leader said. Meanwhile, in a major setback to the Shiv Sena (UBT) in Shirur, party's Pune district president Dnyaneshwar Aaba Katke on Monday joined the Ajit Pawar-led NCP. He joined the NCP along with his key workers in the presence of NCP national president Ajit Pawar and state president Sunil Tatkare in Mumbai. The Shirur Assembly constituency is considered one of the most important constituencies in Pune district.
