IAC to focus on civic polls now

A few weeks after Team Anna took a hit in its popularity ratings, a prominent ally of the movement -- The Maharashtra chapter of India Against Corruption (IAC) is formulating a strategy for the upcoming civic polls in Mumbai and Delhi

A few weeks after Team Anna took a hit in its popularity ratings, a prominent ally of the movement -- The Maharashtra chapter of India Against Corruption (IAC) is formulating a strategy for the upcoming civic polls in Mumbai and Delhi.

A member from Team Anna alluded that the strategy for the BMC poll is underway and the Maharashtra team is deciding on the contours of the campaign. IAC is already engaged in scheming for the Assembly elections in five states -- Goa, Manipur, Punjab, Uttrakhand and Uttar Pradesh -- that go to the polls soon.

Mayank Gandhi, who is in charge of the state unit, said "We are in the process of initiating a voter awareness campaign for the BMC elections to be held in February. As of now, we have decided on conducting open discussions on manifestos that parties have released. We will also inform voters on the image of candidates and the stand they have taken on issues of corruption and lokpal."

IAC will, however, not target any party in the civic polls. "The campaign will not be against any political party, but an awareness movement focussing on the candidates," said an IAC member.

"Right now, our main focal point is the assembly polls in five states for which our program is being given final touches. Our state unit is very strong will soon launch its campaign," said the member.

However, it is doubtful if Anna Hazare, Kiran Bedi, and Arvind Kejriwal will participate in the campaign. "It is unlikely that these people will be available for BMC polls as it is coincides with the assembly polls in five states," added the member.
u00a0
The IAC will start its campaign in five states on January 21, which will continue till March 1.

The campaign will be kicked off from Uttrakhand, followed by Punjab and UP. In March, IAC members will campaign in Goa. The longest campaign will be in UP.

The official spokesperson for IAC said, " Once we are free after the Assembly polls, we will hit the streets in Delhi."

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!