Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar declared on Tuesday that Bengaluru's Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) elections will proceed as planned. This announcement follows a Supreme Court directive requiring the state government to complete the election process by June 30.
Government Commits to Timeline
Shivakumar assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to meet the deadline. He stated that the government will issue all required orders to the State Election Commission (SEC) to ensure smooth polling. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, he emphasized full cooperation with the SEC.
The SEC has already submitted an affidavit to the court regarding the elections. Shivakumar noted that it is now up to the commission to act. He also mentioned that the government must conduct district and taluk panchayat elections. These decisions will align with the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments.
Political Confidence and Challenges
Shivakumar dismissed speculation that the GBA elections pose a political test for him or the Congress party. He framed the elections as a routine duty. "What's the challenge? Conducting elections is my duty," he said. He believes these polls will empower party workers and help develop future leaders.
He expressed confidence in public support for the Congress's work in Bengaluru. Shivakumar predicted a win in all five corporations under the GBA. He commented on the possibility of a BJP-JD(S) alliance in the elections. The Congress is prepared for any scenario, he asserted.
"Let them do whatever they want — contest together or separately," Shivakumar said. He suggested that an alliance might simplify the contest. It could turn a triangular fight into a direct one, similar to recent parliamentary polls.
Addressing Technical Concerns
Some technical objections have been raised about the proposed election plan. Shivakumar acknowledged that the government received representations on these issues. A committee has been formed to examine the concerns.
"Some people submitted objections, and a committee was formed to address these issues," he explained. The SEC will conduct the elections, and the government will provide any necessary instructions. Shivakumar also addressed claims about reduced reservations for women in the polls.
He stated that he did not notice such reductions. However, he assured that any mistakes would be corrected promptly. Shivakumar clarified that the government will not seek an extension from the Supreme Court. The elections will proceed within the stipulated timeline.
Correction Note
A previous report on former councillors' views about GBA polls contained an attribution error. A quote from Ramila R should have been credited to Umashankar D. This correction ensures accurate reporting of the statements.
