India, Jan. 13 -- With the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) election campaign entering its final phase, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP and former Pune mayor Murlidhar Mohol speaks to Yogesh Joshi about the party's prospects, the absence of an alliance with the Shiv Sena, governance criticism, and Pune's civic challenges. Edited excerpts

How do you see BJP's chances in the PMC polls?

The contest is crucial, but we are well placed. Feedback from citizens across wards has been encouraging. Pune voters look at work and intent, not just slogans.

Does contesting without an alliance with Shiv Sena hurt the party in some wards?

Alliances help, but elections are finally about trust. BJP has built a strong organisation and leadership in Pune. ...