Dr Sabita Suar, BJP's mayoral candidate for the Berhampur Municipal Corporation (BeMC), exudes confidence that this time she would definitely win the mandate of the people to the topmost public post of the civic body, which has been the citadel of the Biju Janata Dal.
Reacting on the announcement of her name as party’s Mayoral candidate on Sunday by State Vice President Bhrugu Baxipatra, Sabita said people of Berhampur city are fed up with the Biju Janata Dal rule for its complete failure in addressing basic problems.
When asked about what would be the party’s strategies especially in the light of unprecedented debacle in the recently concluded Panchayat elections, Sabita said, “Panchayat election and ULB elections are poles apart. The city residents are well educated and they realise that the conch party has failed in delivering on its promises. So I am sure people will vote me to power.”
Known as an academician across the city, Sabita claims the city is still grappling with drainage and drinking water problems among horde of other issues.
Wife of BJP leader Uttam Panigrahi, Sabita had served as the principal of Gayatri College for 20 years.
On prospects of success for his wife, Sabita's husband Uttam Panigrahi said, though new to politics, she is not unaware about people of Berhampur city.
"She is not ignorant about the city’s problems either. I am sure that disillusioned people of the city would elect her as their Mayor this time, said Uttam.
The BeMC’s mayor post is reserved for woman. While the BJD has already named Sanghamitra Dalei as its Mayor candidate, the Congress is yet to announce its candidate for the post.
Notably, Monday is the last day for filing nominations.