People’s solutions for civic woes will find a hearing, says Nandini Shivkumar

Nandini Shivkumar, 33, is a graduate with a degree in fine arts. She is contesting the elections to the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) from the Subramanya Nagar ward as an independent candidate. The residents’ associations in Rajajinagar have thrown their weight behind her. She signed an affidavit on Wednesday, a manifesto of sorts. Shivkumar spoke to DNA about her decision to take the plunge into politics.

What inspired you to enter politics?
I just cannot tolerate the fact that most politicians only seek out voters during elections. I had the backing of residents’ welfare associations in my area, and I thought I should just stand for the elections. I studied fine arts at Chitrakala Parishath. I have worked as a web designer. I quit my job as a teacher of arts in an international school three months ago to concentrate on the elections.

You are the only candidate to have submitted an affidavit before residents’ welfare associations. Why did you feel a need for that?
Citizen’s Support Group, a resident welfare association, suggested that I bring out a manifesto in the form of an affidavit. This makes a candidate accountable and responsible. I signed the affidavit to underline the gravity of assurances made to the electorate. It lays down my obligations and duties after I am elected.

What do you think are the priority areas for your ward?
There are areas in the ward located at a slight elevation. E-Block, II stage, Rajajinagar, for instance. These areas suffer acute shortage of water. There are also problems with drainage and garbage disposal that need attention. Many residents of the ward have pets at home, dogs, kittens, or rabbits. When they die, there is no space to bury them. Pet owners are forced to place the dead bodies in dustbins. I want to establish a ‘Chira Shanthivana’ so that pets get a decent burial.

What will your priorities be if you are elected?
I will oppose any project for the widening of Dr Rajkumar Road. Any projects for underpasses or overpasses not in accordance with the existing laws, and not backed by planning as envisaged by the Karnataka Town and Country Planning Act, 1961, will also be opposed. There are about 70 buildings which are affected because of the signal-free corridor project. And the corridor itself is no use at all to the residents in these areas. Some projects proposed under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission are unscientific and illegal, and violate the directions of the Karnataka high court, WP No.7107/2008.

I hope to engage with the people in the area, and allow them a say in the solutions offered to problems. A ‘solution box’ called ‘Parihara’ will be placed on roads, entrances of parks, Hopcoms, temples, churches and mosques. People can list their problems and suggest solutions. We will attempt to incorporate these suggestions.