Residents protest for water in Pune before Assembly elections

In Pune, Maharashtra, residents from the areas of Mohammadwadi and Undri staged a protest on October 23, 2024, demanding better civic amenities from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). They expressed their frustration over the lack of water supply for over 18 years, despite being under the jurisdiction of the PMC since 2017. Protesters displayed placards declaring their grievances, including 'Deprived and Betrayed by PMC for above 18 years' and 'Buy water to survive.' This protest comes in the lead-up to the Maharashtra Assembly elections, scheduled for November 20, with counting on November 23. The demonstrators have threatened to boycott the elections, highlighting the disconnect between the government and citizens regarding basic needs. Local residents emphasized their unwavering demand for water, asserting their right to basic necessities and linking the provision of water to their voting intentions. The discontent is evident as citizens prepare to vote in elections where the ruling alliance and opposition camps are both intensifying their campaigns. This situation brings attention to ongoing urban issues and the expectations residents have of their local government, especially with a history of unmet promises from political leaders in previous elections.