It was a fiery session as the students fought among themselves to throw questions at him.
“I am scared as the students are all set to bombard me with their questions. But I feel happy to interact with the future of India,” exclaimed Neeraj Patil, who was visiting India for the first time after becoming the Mayor.
Monica, an engineering student, had a doubt whether engineers have a future in politics.
“Parliament should house people from all professions. Representatives from different fields should rule the nation so that they can justify the needs and aspirations of people. In my opinion, we should pass a resolution in this regard. And each should take an active part in politics to bring about a change,” he opined.
Ramya was curious to know how Dr Patil manages both his jobs — that of a doctor and a Mayor.
“After becoming the Mayor, I have been working more towards the development of the city. I have to utilise my political power to fulfil the needs of my people. Both of my professions are noble and concerned with needy people,” he said. Ashwini, an MBA student asked whether leadership plays an important role in politics? “It is the most important thing that each politician should possess. A successful politician puts aside his personal inclinations and works for the interests of the public. Because of my leadership qualities, I reached this position and was elected twice,” he confessed.
Neeraj Patil put forth his thoughts on the infrastructure, traffic and lifestyle of Bangalore.
“We have to encourage public transport system in order to lessen traffic congestion, which in turn, hits the Indian economy. It is a pity that housing is not affordable for most people even though they strive for it all their lives,” he regretted.
Held for nearly one-and-a-half hours, the session was a different experience altogether for everyone present. More than 60 students actively participated in it. Tejaswini Ananthkumar, the managing trustee of AIeMS; G R Narayan, the chairman; Pradeep Oak, CEO of Oak Systems and Dr V B Sandur; the principal were present on the occasion.
