The Bangalore Political Action Committee (B.PAC) has released a list endorsing 28 candidates from across 18 constituencies from Bengaluru. This list the comprises of candidates cutting across party lines and is also aimed at encouraging parties to field candidates who connect well with their constituencies and work suitably.
The list has 12 Congress candidates, 8 BJP candidates, 2 from AAP, one from JDS, two independents and one each from Swaraj India and Pyramid Party of India.
The list has names of some prominent politicians including ministers in the Congress regime. This includes Krishna Byre Gowda who is contesting from Byatarayanapura, KJ George from Sarvagnanagar, Ramalinga Reddy from BTM layout, NA Haris from Shantinagar and Dinesh Gundu Rao from Gandhinagara. Dr Aswath Narayan, Suresh Kumar and Aravind Limbavali from the BJP too have been endorsed by B.PAC.
“Politics has reached new low levels. Leaders from various parties have shifted focus from development issues; instead, they have begun insulting each other. But there are certain leaders who have performed, and others who voters feel are capable,” Revathy Ashok, CEO of BPAC told TNM.
“A country like ours has a diverse polity and you need multiple skillsets to tackle issues that confront us today. After diligent deliberations, the committee concluded that each of these candidates had something to offer the voters, and hence should be supported in their endeavor to represent Bengaluru,” Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, President of B.PAC said.
Incumbent candidates were selected based on two aspects. This included their attendance and participation in assembly sessions, and the development works initiated in their constituencies.
Besides this, they should have participated in discussions by asking questions and debating issues, and should have also initiated legislations.
Candidates were shortlisted based on criteria to ensure transparency in selection. These candidates were graded through the MLA rating exercise conducted by BPAC in April.
Candidates with a serious criminal record based on documented evidences were not part of the list. Negative feedback from Resident Welfare Associations and socially active opinion makers was another elimination criterion. Candidates who had used their powers for personal gains, and had been part of violent activities or abuse were rejected.
“We are not going to convince voters to vote for a suitable candidate. This is just a suggestive list based on research. The voter will decide, it is the people’s prerogative,” Revathy said.