Exploiting the weaknesses of the opponents combined with innovative campaigning seems to be the favourite recipe for success in the municipal elections 2013. Strategies, different sets of issues, style of campaigning all indicates that winning the elections is the only thing on the minds of contestants.
Ashok Baraik despite losing in the last municipal elections believes that voting is just a formality in 2013 as he considers himself to be the clear favourite of voters of ward 28. However, Baraik is not leaving any stone unturned to ensure that he emerges victorious.
“I have prepared the winning strategy based on the issues neglected by the incumbent ward councillor in last four to five years,” said Baraik adding “I have done my home work very well.”
Baraik plans to rope in TV reality show stars in the campaign but has not revealed the name so far. Arun Kumar contesting from ward number 29 will use road shows to highlight the issues left unattended by the incumbent ward councillor. “Roads are in pathetic condition in housing board area in my ward, sewerage and clean drinking water are issues which I would definitely address after winning the election,” Kumar said. Significantly, Kumar has also stated his desire to construct a “community hall” for people of his ward especially the poor and people below poverty line (BPl). “Since many BPl families organise marriages in temple due to lack of resources I would dedicate this facility to them as a token of appreciation,” added Kumar.
Kumar’s strategy to lure voters include promise to encourage cottage industry with the help of Jharkraft, forming a team of intellectuals to help in the development of the wards and. The desire to win is just not limited to a handful of contestants. lalit Rajdeep Singh Munda, contestant from ward number 37 is banking on his contribution made to address the issues of his ward and expects that the voters will cast their votes in his favour.
“If you leave aside the fund related activities then I can affirm that I have done more than the incumbent councillor,” said Munda. Munda as a part of his strategy will approach those he did not reach out to in earlier campaign.