BENGALURU: Before she took the political plunge, Sowmya Reddy was a known face for environmental issues and animal rights. The 35-year-old was elected on Wednesday as the MLA for Jayanagar assembly constituency. In an interview with The New Indian Express, she spoke about her journey.
How does it feel to win back your father’s erstwhile assembly seat?
I am extremely proud and at the same time very grateful. This is not just my victory but the victory of party workers, people of Jayanagar, my father, leaders of the party. My aim is now to transform Jayanagar into a model constituency.
What according to you worked in your favour?
My father (Ramalinga Reddy) has represented this constituency four times and despite him moving to another seat, people have been in touch with him. Then, of course, the tireless work by supporters, party workers and leaders. People have also seen my work on animal rights, women’s issues, environmental rights, human rights.
Do you believe your role as an activist helped build a positive image?
Yes, absolutely. The party gave me a ticket based on my potential, capacity and for the work I have done in the last 15 years.
What is your vision for Jayanagar?
As a youngster and a woman, my priority is to address core issues. In my interactions with voters of the constituency in the last one year, I have identified problems even at ward levels.
Unemployment is a huge issue for the youth. Jobs for women, schemes for people from economically weaker sections, a solution to traffic snarls, upgrading public institutions like schools and hospitals to make them on par with private institutions is my vision. Saving greenery, solid waste management, turning Jayanagar into a zero garbage constituency is my priority.