Golconda Division: BJP foray heats up poll sce

Hyderabad: Once the citadel of Qutub Shahi era, the Golconda (67) division later turned into a fully urbanised settlement. It has famous and splendid heritage sites such as Golconda fort, 7 Tombs and a gigantic tree called Hathiyaan Ka Jhaad (Boabab Tree). The area reminds of the 400-year-old thriving history and culture of Qutub Shahi rulers who later found the city of Hyderabad in 1591.

A densely populated area with tight grain houses partially or semi furnished, this ward carries a total number of 45,652 voters. In this ward reserved for the BC (woman) candidate, TRS, AIMIM, BJP parties and several independent are in the foray. Last time the contest was among TRS, TDP, Congress and AIMIM wherein Hafsiya Hanseef gained victory by securing 14,236 votes out of a total of 19,731 votes. BJP forayed into the ward, by fielding B Shakunthala. AIMIM too has changed the face of its candidate this time, by giving ticket to Sameena Yasmeen. Amongst other candidates, Asfiya Khan (TRS) and Fahmida Begum (Ind) are seeking mandate from this yard.

Like in any other part of the city, denizens here are also depressed by the state of affairs – lack or dead pace of development works. "We were deprived of cash relief despite having severely suffered from the recent flood that robbed us of whatever wherewithal we have. Things will go on like this and people become completely used to the situation. As far as the civic issues are concerned we have to keep hopping around leaders to get them resolved. There is no direct link between the people and the GHMC officials or staff," said Muneeruddin Khan.

"Misuse of funds in the name of constructing roads is a common practice here. Roads that can be used for few more few months, if not years, are being re-laid, covers of manholes are being changed frequently needlessly. There is no logic in spending funds on such things," bemoaned Mohammed Afzal, a community activist.

Let alone civic issues, he said, the officials are not even serious about protecting archeological sites. During the recent floods, several sites were damaged here. "Manju Burj where the ancient canon is lying was completely destroyed due to negligence on the part of officials of Archaeological Survey of India," he rued.