Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar on Monday asserted that elections to the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) would be conducted strictly within the deadline fixed by the Supreme Court, dismissing speculation about any possible delay.
Speaking to reporters at the Palace Grounds, Shivakumar, who also handles the Bengaluru Development portfolio, said the State Government would issue all necessary directions to the State Election Commission (SEC) to ensure timely conduct of the elections.
Read Here: Supreme Court–mandated Bengaluru’s 5 City Corporations election deadline, Notification by May 26, Elections by June 30
“We will conduct the GBA elections as per the Supreme Court’s order. The Election Commission has already filed its affidavit before the Court. The government will extend full cooperation and issue required directions,” he said.
Zilla and Taluk Panchayat Elections Also Due
The Deputy Chief Minister underlined that elections were not limited to urban bodies alone and stressed the need to conduct Zilla Panchayat and Taluk Panchayat elections as well.
“We are constitutionally bound under the 73rd and 74th Amendments to hold local body elections. We will do whatever is necessary to fulfil that responsibility,” Shivakumar said.
Technical Objections Under Review
Responding to queries on technical objections raised by some quarters, Shivakumar said a committee had already been formed to examine the issues.
“There are representations regarding technical aspects, including concerns over women’s reservation. A committee is examining them. We will direct the Election Commission to look into these matters, but there will be no political interference,” he clarified.
He categorically ruled out approaching the Supreme Court for an extension of time. “We will not seek additional time,” he said.
‘Confident of Public Support’
Downplaying suggestions that the GBA elections would pose a major political challenge, Shivakumar said the Congress was well prepared.
“What challenge is there? Conducting elections is our duty. We are empowering party workers and preparing new leadership. We are confident the people will support our work across all five city corporations,” he said.
Why the BJP–JDS Merger Remark?
In a politically loaded remark that sparked fresh debate, Shivakumar responded to questions about a possible “friendly contest” between the BJP and JDS by openly daring them to fight together.
“Let them do whatever they want—fight separately or fight together. If they have the same understanding they had during the Parliamentary elections, then it will be a direct fight,” he said.
The statement is being seen as a strategic challenge from the Congress leadership, signalling confidence ahead of the high-stakes GBA elections, while daring the opposition to consolidate if it believes unity is its strength.
ಇದನ್ನೂ ಓದಿ: GBA ಚುನಾವಣೆಗೆ BJP–JDS ಒಟ್ಟಾಗಿ ಎದುರಿಸಲಿ ಎಂದು DK ಶಿವಕುಮಾರ್ ಹೇಳುವುದೇಕೆ?
About the Author
