Modernising the dhobi ghat in Nehru Nagar in south Delhi is a priority for the Congress candidate from Lajpat Nagar ward. “We must provide better facilities to people from all walks of life. The dhobi ghat is in bad condition,” said Kavita Malhotra of Congress, who is contesting the MCD polls for the first time.
“The area comes under my ward and I want to modernise it. I will provide washing machines and ensure hygiene for people working there,” said Malhotra.
Another candidate, Veena Abrol, who is contesting as an independent from Lajpat Nagar, said people are angry with parties because of false promises. “Party members vouch for development but they never work on it. Even the simple act of keeping roads clean is not done,” said Veena, who was a sitting councillor from the area. The BJP had denied her a ticket this time.
Residents also feel parties have not done much to improve the area. “They promise a lot before elections, only to disappoint later. Independents stand a good chance of winning in Lajpat Nagar,” said Ameeta, a resident.
According to residents, illegal buildings and paying guest facilities have overcrowded the area. “The issue of illegal construction allegedly aided by MCD officials should not be ignored,” said Mahinder Singh, resident of Krishna Market in Lajpat Nagar Part 1.
East of Kailash
Women candidates in East of Kailash say they will empower minority communities and help educate girl children.
Urmila Malavalia, 56, of BJP wants to run a campaign of educating girl children. “I could not pursue studies because people in my family never encouraged girls to step out of the house,” she said. “Another issue is that several families are unable to support the marriage of their daughters. We will given them financial aid to tide through hardships,” she added.
Bimla Kanojia of Congress, who is also contesting from the area, wants to hike old-age pension. “We also want to build more schools. But before that we will provide adequate support to senior citizens,” said Bimla. She said she will help widows with self-employment schemes.
‘We will not vote’
Some residents of Prakash Mohalla, which comes under East of Kailash ward, have decided not to vote for any party or independents. They say they are fed up with hearing promises that never get fulfilled. “We will work on our own instead of depending on councillors,” said Reema Bhaskar, a resident of Prakash Mohalla.
