Mrinal Hebbalkar, the Congress candidate for the Belgaum Lok Sabha seat and son of Laxmi Hebbalkar, the Minister for Women and Child Welfare, stresses the significance of the upcoming election for the democratic process. He aims to tackle issues such as unkept promises and community inclusivity in his campaign. Despite being his debut election, Mrinal, the son of Laxmi Hebbalkar, asserts that campaigning is not unfamiliar territory for him. He underscores that the upcoming May 7 election is pivotal for the sustenance of democracy.
Excerpts from an interview
Q. Did the choice to engage in politics stem from personal inclination or familial influence?
Ans: I became interested in politics when my mother ran for an election, which allowed me to become involved in public affairs. The choice to pursue a political career wasn’t solely mine or influenced by my family; rather, it was a decision supported by those around me. I’ve collaborated with my mother for a considerable time, assisting in her election campaigns and garnering votes. While I’m no stranger to politics, aspiring to become a Member of Parliament presents a significant undertaking.
Q. What aspirations do you have?
Ans: Ensuring that the constituents have access to Union government schemes is a top priority. However, this accessibility has been lacking for the past two decades due to the inaction of Belgaum’s Members of Parliament. A notable contrast can be seen in Dakshina Kannada district, which boasts 97 Janaushadhi Kendras, whereas Belagavi, the second-largest district, only has 17. It falls upon the local representatives to guarantee the delivery of these schemes to the people.
Q. Apart from the state government’s five guarantee schemes, what other elements will be advantageous for you?
Ans: The main advantage I have is the lack of progress by Belgaum MPs in the last two decades. Previous promises made by MPs have not been kept, such as the pledge to attract multinational companies and build a state-of-the-art swimming pool in the Belagavi (South assembly) constituency. This failure to fulfill commitments has created a desire for change among the people.
Q. Do you believe that Panchamasalis’ reservation will play a role?
Ans: My mother advocated for Panchamasali reservation and actively engaged in padayatras. We have ensured the support of every community. Our objective extends beyond Panchamasalis to encompass all communities.
Q. What approach do you plan to take to overcome the challenge posed by your opponent, Jagadish Shettar, who brings with him extensive political experience as a former Chief Minister?
Ans: I can list the contributions made by the last three Chief Ministers, including BS Yediyurappa, to Belagavi, but I cannot recall a single initiative undertaken by Shettar for this constituency. Despite holding key positions like Industries and Belagavi District Minister during the pandemic, Shettar declined the industrial sector’s request to resume operations in Belagavi, unlike in Hubballi. This decision adversely affected around 15,000 laborers, reflecting his prioritization of other regions over Belagavi.
Q. How do you react to the personal criticisms directed at you and your family by your opponents?
Ans: I have never engaged in personal attacks against anyone.
It’s not the tradition of my family. MP Mangala Angadi accused me of speaking to her rudely and played the gender card. I would like to ask her why she remained silent when BJP MLAs insulted my mother. She was present on the stage and even laughed at that time.
Q. What attributes have you acquired from your mother that will aid you in your political journey?
Ans: Committing to truthfulness and staying true to my word without making empty promises.
Q. How significant is this election from a national standpoint?
Ans: The significance of this election lies in the need for a robust democracy to unite our diverse nation, which encompasses various cultures, religions, and languages. Over the past decade, there has been a gradual erosion of people’s freedoms, with institutions such as the media and the Supreme Court facing increasing pressure. The suppression of the opposition’s voice has become prevalent. Hence, this election holds immense importance.
