Contrary to expectations that independent candidates would win in large numbers and hold the key for the mayoral election in the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) elections, only a few made it to the council.
Political pundits had predicted that at least 25 to 30 independents would get elected this time. In the event of a hung verdict, these independents were expected to play a key role in deciding the ruling party.
However, only seven independents got elected as corporators. Thus, the independent corporators have virtually become insignificant in the election of Mayor and the Deputy Mayor.
In Shivajinagar ward coming under Shivajinagar Assembly segment, Farida got elected by securing 7,039 votes of the total 13,941 polled and defeated Congress candidate Naima Begum, who secured 5,857 votes. K. Shivakumar, who secured 2,965 votes was declared elected from Shantalanagar ward in Shanthinagar Assembly constituency. He defeated Salam B. of Congress, who got 2,753 votes. Mr. Shivakumar is a known football player. Nazni Begum who polled 6,230 votes in Padarayanapura ward defeated Zareena Begum of JD(S), who secured 4,200 votes.
