Retired sub-inspector Bhaskar Kundawar plans to enter active politics from Gondpipri

Bhaskar Waman Kundawar of Gondpipri taluka has decided to step into active politics. He recently retired as a sub-inspector after 35 years in the police force.

Most people in government service confine themselves to their families and their jobs. Some, while performing their duty, also feel they owe something to society. Such people build a distinct identity among ordinary people, and many see them as one of their own. Kundawar has been counted among them. During his police career he discharged his social responsibilities along with his duty.

He believes politics is an effective means of serving society, and it is with this thinking that he has decided to enter active politics. Gondpipri taluka has been his field of work, and he has indicated that he will contest the coming election from this taluka with full force.

Recently he called a meeting of his supporters in Gondpipri and put his views before them. Kundawar said Karanji is not his birthplace, yet Karanji is his field of work. His stand shows that he has built close ties with Karanji and the surrounding villages, and that social work gave him the chance to engage with people. While holding his job, he stayed in touch with different sections of society and tried to run several social initiatives.

Working in the social sphere gives one the chance to understand people's problems, the needs of the area and their expectations. On the strength of this experience, Kundawar expressed the wish to work on a larger scale in the time ahead. His statement at the meeting suggests he wants to combine social service with a political journey and work on local issues.

His stand is being seen as significant in the context of the coming local body elections. His preparations to become active in politics appear to rest on the public contact he gained through social work and the response of the people. However, he has not yet made clear which local body he will contest or from which ward or circle he will enter the fray.

Kundawar said, "For 35 years while on duty in the police force I always kept up the spirit of helping society. I have now firmly decided to begin a new innings for social service. The people of Gondpipri taluka and the Karanji area have always loved me. I am confident that this affection will continue." He was speaking as a social worker.

People in the area are now watching what role Kundawar takes up and what strategy he decides on for the election.