Mysore/Mysuru: With the Karnataka High Court annulling the election of Rukimini Madegowda of the JD(S) as Corporator from MCC Ward 36 (Yaraganahalli and Ambedkar Colony), Rukmini stands disqualified as Mayor.

Subsequent to Rukmini Madegowda’s disqualification as Mayor, Deputy Mayor Anwar Baig of the Congress will function as the acting city Mayor till the fresh Mayoral polls on June 11.

Anwar Baig took charge of the office of the Mayor on Wednesday after obtaining a letter to  this effect from MCC Commissioner Shilpa Nag.

Speaking to presspersons after assuming office as the acting Mayor, Anwar Baig said that it is for the first time in the 38 year history of MCC that the election of a Corporator was annulled when functioning as the city Mayor. Noting that he has got an opportunity to occupy the Mayor’s office, albeit temporarily, he said that he will use the opportunity for bringing out the best in him. Pointing out that he will function as acting Mayor till June 11, he said that his first priority is to bring COVID under control in the city.

Maintaining that he will hold meeting with officials on COVID control measures from Thursday itself, he said that he will also review other development works undertaken by the MCC.

The MCC will take all emergency measures that are  needed for reducing  COVID case fatalities, he added.

Meanwhile, MCC Commissioner Shilpa Nag said that the polls for electing a new Mayor will take place at 12 noon on June 11. However, in case the lockdown is extended beyond June 7, a decision on whether to conduct the election or not will be taken after consultation with the Regional Commissioner, she added.