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Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (VP)

Mangaluru, May 25: "My concern is not about the upcoming elections, but to work for the upcoming generations," said Dr Nareshchand Hegde, MLC candidate for the south-west teachers’ constituency.

Speaking to the media on Saturday, May 2, Dr Hegde stated, "On June 3, we have MLC elections, and I am contesting from the south-west teachers’ constituency. The voters are well-educated, and today we are saddened that our leaders do not have degrees. There are 23,000 voters across 5 districts, and this time I am contesting as an independent candidate. I have already submitted my nominations in Mysuru.

"By profession, I am a teacher, and I have been teaching for 15 years across the country. I am also a cardiologist. I was a leader when I was studying, and now I am contesting this election to support teachers. I have had discussions with teachers, noted down their problems, and we will work on solving them," he elaborated.

Responding to questions from the media about how he plans to manage his time for this extensive constituency, Dr Hegde stated, "I have completed one round, and we are conducting a social media campaign. Today, politicians are entering this constituency, which was initially reserved for educated people and teachers. We have changed this, and this is my purpose."

Regarding the issues facing teachers, he remarked, "Contract-based teachers are paid less, and there is a significant disparity between private and government teachers. My concern is not just about the upcoming elections, but also about working for the upcoming generations and establishing a state-of-the-art teachers training institute."

When asked about the BJP-JD(S) alliance candidate Bhoje Gowda, Hegde commented, "Although he has helped teachers at a personal level, he lacks vision. He is a full-time politician and not a teacher."