Cong still hopes polls could be postponed

The Congress still seems to be hoping that the elections to the BBMP could be postponed for sometime.

The State Election Commission announced the calendar of events for the polls on Thursday. It would be notified by the BBMP Commissioner on July 8.

But those contemplating challenging the High Court order argue that before Commissioner notified the calendar of events, one could approach the court seeking a revised schedule or postponement of the polls.

However, sources in the Election Commission said the announcement of the calendar of events amounted to notifying the elections.

At the same time, they said, much depended on interpretation of the court. A source in the government pointed out that efforts were on by certain people and a government body to move the Supreme Court on July 1 or 2.

The services of a well-known advocate practising in the apex court would be sought to handle the case.

The High Court, while dismissing the petition seeking postponement of the polls, directed the government to hold elections before August 5 as directed by the apex court.

The single-judge bench headed by Justice B V Nagarathna had imposed a penalty of Rs 10,000 for wasting the court’s time.  The State SC/ST Commission was the petitioner.