India’s IT capital, Bengaluru, is going to polls today for elections of councillors to the 198 wards of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike. Counting of votes will be taken up on August 25. A total of 1,121 candidates are in the fray. The elections are being held after a prolonged court battle as the ruling congress government sought to defer the polls on the grounds of restructuring the civic body. Around 7.4 million (73,88,526) voters are registered to exercise franchise for electing their civic representatives. A total of 9,310 election voting machines and 11,635 ballot units is being used for the exercise.

Apart from the Congress and BJP, JD(S), MIM, SP, BSP, CPI, CPI (M) are also in the fray, along with good number of independent candidates. Opposition BJP and JDS had brought the government in the line of fire, calling its move on trifurcation as an attempt to put off the polls, as the ruling party was unsure of its victory. Amidst resistance from opposition parties, the government has passed the bill trifurcating BBMP in the legislature; it is now before the Governor for his assent.

Voting Timings:

Voting began at 7 AM as voters in different parts of the city gradually marched towards the polling booth in their areas. Despite late night showers in the city and drizzle in the morning, voters are showing enthusiasm to come out and vote. The voting will go on till 5 PM.

Amount Spent on BBMP Elections:

According to people, money is being spent like water in the BBMP elections by all major political parties. On an average Rs 7-8 crore is spent on each ward by all candidates put together. Bengaluru City Corporation has 198 wards and the total cost would be over Rs 1500 crore in this election.

Check out BBMP Elections 2015 LIVE Updates:

• 11.25 AM: For many, this is the first election in which they are eligible to vote.
• 11:10 AM: Even senior citizens have woke up early in the morning to vote for a better Bangalore.
• 11:05 AM: Voting in candlelight! With no power at Vijina Pura ward, citizens cast their votes in the dark.
• 11 AM: BJP protests in Bilekahalli as Congress workers allegedly stopped a citizen from voting. Cops on the spot.
• 10:43 AM: Only 97 people have voted so far in Shantalanagar ward, out of which 51 are women.
• 9:30 AM: Local media has reported scuffle between BJP and JD(S) supporters in Yelahanka.

Helpine Numbers:

• BBMP- Helpline Number: 080-22224748, 080-22221188
• State Election Commission – Helpline Number: 080-22374740