Donate big to civic war chest, win ticket

Rich Civic Poll ticket hopefuls said to be wooing parties

Richu00a0Civic Poll ticket hopefuls said to be wooing parties

It seemsu00a0this civic election is going to be about a lot of big-ticket candidates.

Those who wish to contest the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagar Palike (BBMP) polls are learnt to be already wooing political parties with the promise of heavy donations for campaigns in exchange for a ticket.

According to sources, aspirants are ready to shell out anything from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 2 crore for a ticket.

IT'S WAR: The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike poll is on February 21

Moolah talks

The reason behind this is again money, or more precisely the funds of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). Ever since the city came under the scheme, it has received Rs 2,000 crore and is expected to receive another Rs 15,000 crore.

"The JNNURM funds have made the councillor's position more lucrative than that of a member of the Legislative Assembly," said former mayor P R Ramesh. "That is why there is a rush for a poll ticket like never before, especially for wards where developmental works are needed most."

New wards lucrative

Little wonder, then, that demand is highest for new wards that have come up on the outskirts of the city. The next preference is for commercial areas, while developed residential areas have fewer takers.

"New wards have more vacant land and the scope for real estate development is high. Hence they are lucrative for councillors," said a former councilor. "Commercial areas are tax havens and yield rich dividends."

Added Ramesh, "This time, we are going to witness an ugly game of politics driven by the power of money."

Poll time brings the moneybags

Becoming a councillor makes sound business sense for many.

Good for business

"The real estate business is in trouble and the big players are looking at membership of council as a better alternative, as councillorship will help them in their business," said a source in the Congress.

While real estate players are the front-runners for the tickets, underworld elements are not far behind.

In the case of political parties, Congress is the most sought after, while BJP is a close second. Meanwhile, JD (S) is in confusion with party leaders floating an idea of coalition with Congress, but Congress leaders not encouraging it.

Rs 5 lakh
Maximum amount a candidate can spend, as dictated by the election commission