Bengaluru: In a significant move that could reshape urban governance, the Urban Development Department (UDD) has introduced a draft proposal outlining the delimitation of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) wards. This crucial development, aimed at the upcoming BBMP elections, arrives amidst the challenges posed by urban expansion and administrative restructuring.
Unveiled late on a August 28, the draft proposes changes to the ward configuration, suggesting an expansion from the current 198 wards to a total of 225 wards. This augmentation, driven by a re-evaluation of population dynamics since the 2011 census, emphasises the necessity for improved representation to effectively cater to the evolving needs of Bengaluru’s growing population.
As per the announcement, local residents and stakeholders are invited to provide their feedback and concerns regarding the proposed delimitation within a 15-day period starting from the publication date of the draft.
The document includes the names and boundaries of all 225 wards, marking a notable departure from the earlier plan to increase the ward count to 243. This revision was prompted by objections raised by the Congress party, questioning the methodology employed during the previous delimitation process, conducted under the former government’s tenure.
The mandate for this revision originates from the Karnataka High Court, which granted the state government a 12-week timeframe in June 2023 to reinitiate the ward delimitation process, citing procedural flaws in the previous attempt.
Following the successful completion of the delimitation process, the allocation of ward reservations will be disclosed, setting the stage for the much-anticipated BBMP elections. This step, crucial for ensuring fair representation, aligns with the broader objectives of democratic governance and responsive urban management.
The announcement by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy that the BBMP elections are anticipated to take place by the end of 2023 adds a sense of urgency to the proceedings.
The intricacies of this draft proposal, its detailed delineations, and the involvement of the public underscore a critical moment for Bengaluru’s urban governance landscape. As the discussions unfold, it serves as a testament to the dynamic nature of democratic governance and the city’s commitment to realising its full potential through participatory urban development. (end of message)