Cong posturing does not bother SAURABH BHARADWAJ; what does is water & electricity
The journey from a being a computer engineer to the newly sworn-in Minister for Food and Civil Supply and Transport has been both challenging and momentous for 34-year-old Saurabh Bharadwaj. Bharadwaj, who represents Greater Kailash constituency, wants to do away with the paraphernalia around Ministers and legislators. Admitting his responsibility has now multiplied, he vows to serve the people even though he and his party members are being closely watched. In a candid conversation with Pragya Singh, he reveals his agenda for the benefit of the people, even though he admits it will be challenging to meet public expectations
What will be your priority as a Minister in Delhi GovernmentIJ
We are planning to scrap the controversial BRT project but we are studying the High Court order on the issue. We will see what we as a Government can do about it. We will take a decision on it very soon. It’s too premature to decide on priorities, but we do have certain plans and we’re working on them.
What are the immediate priorities for your constituencyIJ
Water and electricity are an immediate priority. Around 30 per cent to 40 per cent of the areas in Chirag Dilli village still do not receive water and not provided with pipelines. There is unequal distribution of water in the
constituency; a majority of the people does not receive a steady supply of water. Inequitable distribution of water needs to be addressed.
Tell us about your association with the Aam Aadmi Party.
I have been associated with the movement for the passage of the Jan lokpal Bill since its inception. A law degree has been helpful in providing legal assistance to the poor. I have been active in social work and thus, got associated with the movement as it was the only voice against rampant corruption. Now that we have been elected by the people, we can translate our promises into action. The people will feel a difference in the pace of work.
Tell us about your educational qualifications. How will it help during your tenure as a public representativeIJ
I have worked with a Gurgaon-based MNC as a software engineer. I have a degree from Guru Gobind Singh IP University. I have also studied law; a legal degree has helped me understand legalese. I am going through the High Court’s order on the Bus Rapid Transit corridor.
Are you worried about Congress’ withdrawal of supportIJ
If they (Congress) try to create roadblocks for us they themselves will fail during the lok Sabha elections. People today are a lot more aware and are judicious to decide which party can serve their interests better. After receiving immense support from Delhiites, our confidence level is on the upswing; a lot of good Samaritans are extending support to us.
How do you plan to maintain your accessibility to the peopleIJ
Our party’s core agenda is clear: We will be accessible and visible among people, unlike other party’s Ministers and MlAs who surface just before elections. Though my constituency can be trifurcated into urban villages, middle class areas and posh colonies, people from across these areas have showered their love and voted for me. Mohalla sabhas will tremendously help in decentralising power and increase people participation in decision-making in their respective areas. These sabhas will be held once a month and the message will be sent across not just on social networking sites but through volunteers as well.