Daijiworld Media Network - Kollegal (SP)
Kollegal, Jun 6: Gouthamma (102), whose entry into the gram panchayat (GP) election fray had garnered much attention all over the state, has surprised one and all by winning the election. She had fought for a seat from Doddalattur village in Ramapura revenue division near Hanur in the district.
Gouthamma has again hogged limelight by winning over her nearest rival by a margin of 136 votes. She has emerged as the senior-most people's representative to have won an election from Karnataka. The seat for which she fought had been reserved for woman from general category.
For Gouthamma, this is the first ever election in which she is a candidate. She proved to be a hard nut to crack for her rival, Chinnamma, who lost by a considerable margin, taking into consideration that the winning candidate bagged 354 votes and margin of victory happens to be 136.
Villagers of Doddalattur had in unison urged Gouthamma to fight the election, as they were disillusioned with the inertia of the candidates they had elected in previous elections. Youngsters and women canvassed for votes for this elderly woman, and the voters seem to have been swayed by the undying spirit exhibited by her at this advanced age.
Gouthamma's husband, Avalanaika, had breathed his last 30 years ago. Gouthamma guided the family of six daughters and a son alone and became part of the trials and tribulations of her family members and fellow villagers. Her only son several years ago.
In spite of her age, Gouthamma draws admiration because she is totally independent, and is able to do all her work alone. She is backed by determination, compassion, and oratory acumen, all of which have been by her the experience of leading a hard life. People of her village have no doubt in her abilities to work for them better than the previous ones they had elected in previous elections.