I worked hard, but CM discriminated against oppn MLAs' constituencies: S Raghu
What would be your agenda if you win this election?
Greenery will be my focus. CV Raman Nagar constituency should have a proper green cover like Cubbon Park. Secondly, rainwater harvesting should be done in every colony as the groundwater level needs to be increased and recharged. The environment is something I feel passionately about, not to mention public health which is why we constructed the CV Raman Nagar General hospital. We also have 52 parks in the area. Kagga dasapura lake development is another issue would will be taken up on priority.
If you win this time, it will be a hat-trick plus for you?
Yes. If I win this time it will be my fourth win. But more importantly, it will show the public trust and support for my work. Yes a lot of work has to be done and every effort of mine will be aimed at creating a good environment in the constituency.
How has CV Raman Nagar developed in the past ten years under your tenure and what are the major challenges you faced?
I have constructed 12 school buildings and developed 52 parks, all named after renowned personalities. We have installed 18 drinking water RO plants across CV Raman Nagar charging a meagre Rs 5 from the poor. For safety and security, we have installed 1500 LED street lights which are also energy efficient. In the next five years, we are planning to replace them with sodium vapour lamps. However, the MLA grants are not enough. More than 12000 senior citizen cards have been provided, old age and widow pension has been ensured. Also, 550 houses have been constructed for SC/ST and BPL families in CV Raman Nagar. We have set up 22 bus shelters and installed 28 High Mast Lights.
But, mobilising funds has been a big challenge as the government has discriminated between constituencies represented by the ruling party and opposition. We are paying 120 crores to BBMP and the government is getting enough from citizens here. At least 50% should be given back to the assembly segment. Why is it that one constituency gets huge sums while others don't? There should be equality. You cannot favour the ruling party all the time as it hampers development. For the last five years, we have been reaching out to the state sovernment for the flyover at NGF junction but nothing has happened.
If you win the coming elections, what are your plans for your consti- tuency?
Traffic is a major priority. We will be looking at road widening as well. Also, Kaggadasa pura lake development is big on our priority list as we have already constructed the walking track and fenced the area. Sadly, for want of funds, desilting of the lake was not possible. But, if elected, I will ensure STP plants are installed and desilting of the lake is started.
The pub nuisance has become an issue in Indiranagar, hasn’t it?
You should ask people who give licences to the pubs and restaurants. An MLA cannot be held accountable. You should ask BBMP and other authorities who hand over the licences for opening pubs and bars and restaurants. I am against the pub and bar culture and I am not a member of any club in the city. In this case, I am also helpless when it comes to taking action against authorities who issue licences.
Why should people vote for you?
I believe I am doing sincere work, I am transparent and try to do the best for my assembly segment. I have been approachable to Resident Welfare Associations and other people.
