V Balakrishnan, who recently stepped down as board member of software behemoth Infosys, has joined the Aam Admi Party.
Read here: Captain Gopinath joins Aam Aadmi Party
He was among the 201 persons from the city, who became primary members of the party on New Year's day. In an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle, he speaks about his association with the party and the road ahead.
Why politics now?
After leaving Infosys, I was thinking of doing multiple things. I was following the Delhi election closely and the result was an eye opener. It was evident that people wanted to see a change and I wanted to be a part of this change.
Do you think you can be agents of change in Karnataka?
I definitely feel so. It is a good platform to bring corrective measures in the governance and I will try to do so.
Do you see a trend of technocrats moving towards politics? If yes, do you think it is a good sign?
I think there is a huge trend of technocrats moving towards politics and it is definitely for the good. In India, the ability to make a change by getting inside the political system is huge, hence, technocrats want to get into the system to make it better and offer their expertise.
What will be your future course of action?
I have just joined the party. I need to understand many things, my role, see the options available, areas where I can contribute. It is too early to say anything.
Have you got in touch with the local AAP activists?
Yes, I have already established by connections with the local unit of the party.
Do you intend to meet Arvind Kejriwal?
I do intend to meet Mr Kejriwal at some point of time, but not now as he has just taken up the responsibility as Delhi Chief Minister and is busy with many issues.
What will be your contribution to Lok Sabha election and Karnataka per se?
As I said, I am yet to figure out the areas I can contribute and my role in the party.
What is the response from AAP?
The response has been overwhelming, not only from the members of AAP, but from people hailing from different walks of life. My friends, family, well wishers are elated with my decision.
What is your say on the current political system, both national and state level?
There are a lot of gaps in the current political system. The perception of corruption is too strong. But now with AAP, things can change for the better. It has started a silent revolution and most importantly they have created a big acceptance among the youngsters.
As a student, were you involved in students’ movements, student union or any kind of social work?
I was always into studies. ParÂticiÂpating in other activities were out of my radar always.
AAP has been criticised as a one-point agenda? Often they have been questioned on their foreign and economic policy. What is your say?
Big changes happen with a small idea. The primary aim is to eradicate corruption; other issues are part and parcel of any governance. Currently, AAP is responsible for one state. I am sure they will come up with a clear agenda pertaining to all the segments of governance, when they take responsibility of the entire country.
What is your take on the ongoing speculation of Nandan NileÂkani and Balakrishnan conÂtestiÂnÂg each other for the coming LS election?
These are all imagination. As I said, it is too early to comment on anything.
