The Karnataka government is contemplating organizing all local body elections simultaneously, including the civic polls in Bengaluru. Deputy Chief Minister and State Congress President D.K. Shivakumar disclosed this decision, emphasizing the importance of empowering the youth and fostering new leadership. Currently, Bengaluru has 369 wards resulting from five municipal corporations.
Discussions are ongoing regarding the inclusion of Bengaluru’s outskirts within the municipal limits. The government has also planned to conduct district and taluk panchayat elections, addressing reservation-related concerns. While suggestions have been made for gram panchayat elections to be held on party symbols, no final decision has been reached yet. The possibility of conducting all these elections in a single phase is being considered.
Responding to queries about using ballot papers instead of electronic voting machines for these elections, Shivakumar highlighted the State Election Commission’s jurisdiction in this matter. He stressed the importance of ensuring voting participation, regardless of the election mode. The government has released the draft voters’ list and arranged booth-level agents (BLAs) to address any voter omissions, ensuring their voting rights.
Shivakumar clarified that the State Election Commission, independent of the government, will determine the election procedures. When questioned about the use of ballot papers in light of confidence issues with the Central Election Commission, he reiterated the State Election Commission’s autonomy in decision-making. Regarding criticism from BJP leaders for canceling his Davos trip, Shivakumar acknowledged the validity of their concerns and deferred further discussion to the following day.
