The Aam Aadmi Party, sections of which till recently hoped to contest the elections to the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to make entry into the local body, has decided against contesting the polls.
Shantala Damle, party’s spokesperson, told The Hindu that AAP’s considered opinion is that contesting the polls scheduled on August 22 is “a meaningless exercise” in the light of the government’s plan to trifurcate the city corporation. AAP leader Ravikrishna Reddy, meanwhile, said: “Of course, a section of party workers are upset with the decision. But they are convinced about the argument of party leaders.”
Supporters from the city had been one of prime contributors when it came to fundraising for party’s campaigns, including the one of the Delhi Assembly elections. Soon after its success in New Delhi, party leaders had eyed Bengaluru as one of the key cities to expand the party’s base. The city unit of the AAP had even picked a few wards on a pilot basis and taken up issues there, besides drafting a strong vision document for the IT capital through participatory democracy. It had launched Bombat Bengaluru to crowd source a vision plan for the city earlier this year.
Party insiders cite lack of preparation, absence of eligible candidates and that it is still recovering from internal battles as the reasons for the decision. Ms. Damle, however, said the party was “completely prepared.” She said the manifesto was ready and party was conducting street meetings on a regular basis.
