The Tribune Interview: Improving water supply, sanitation, roads a priority

Born to a businessman father and a doctor mother, Umang Bajaj, youngest MLA in the Assembly from Rajinder Nagar, brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial drive and social responsibility to his political career. In an interview with Anshita Mehra of The Tribune, the BJP legislator reflects on his journey into politics, pressing issues in his constituency and his long-term vision to bring about meaningful change for Rajinder Nagar.

How did your political journey begin?

My political journey began during the first wave of Covid-19. Instead of staying idle, my team and I worked relentlessly to help those in need. In villages and among migrant workers who had lost their jobs, we supplied food, even reaching out to hospitals. After the first wave, some of my friends, who were already involved in politics, suggested that I take my social work to a larger platform. So in 2021, I joined the BJP. With the second wave of Covid, we ramped up our efforts, providing food to nearly 3,000 people daily till the lockdown was lifted. Later, the party gave me a ticket for the 2022 MC elections, and now here I am, elected as an MLA.

How did your interest develop in politics?

My primary interest has always been in social work. I’ve always felt a strong urge to help people. I did engineering as my mom wanted me to, but personally, I’ve always been more inclined towards social causes. Even during school, I would wonder why bad things happened to certain people and how I could make a difference.

What are the main issues you are focusing on in your constituency?

The three main issues in Rajinder Nagar are water, sewage and roads. These are the immediate problems we plan to address first. We’ll focus on fixing the drainage system, ensuring proper water supply and improving the condition of roads.

Do you think the tragic deaths of three UPSC aspirants due to waterlogging had an impact on Durgesh Pathak’s defeat?

I wouldn’t say that for sure, but Pathak’s defense that the building was constructed 15 years ago during the BJP’s MCD rule doesn’t hold much weight. During my tenure as a councillor, we took immediate action when waterlogging was an issue in I-block of Naraina. We put measures in place to ensure it didn’t happen again. Similarly, we will work to address waterlogging in Rajinder Nagar, though the issue is more complex due to outdated infrastructure designed for a smaller population. But, we will plan for the future.

What about the rising crime rate in some parts of your Assembly?

Huge influx of trucks in some areas is contributing to crime. I plan to collaborate with the police and run awareness campaigns. If the people have trusted us with their votes, we have a responsibility to serve them and improve their lives.

What do you think were the key factors behind your victory in the elections?

The work I did as a councillor made a significant difference. Residents of Rajinder Nagar want progress, not just promises. The previous MLA focused more on distributing money and freebies, but there was little to show in terms of actual work. During the campaign, there were no banners or hoardings highlighting the work done by the last MLA — only promises of Rs 2,100. Despite Durgesh Pathak’s popularity, people understand that success is built on actual work, and that’s what I brought to the table.

What are your short-term and long-term plans for development in your Assembly?

For long-term development, I envision building a hospital with at least 500 beds, a school and a sports complex. These projects will not only benefit the younger generation but also generate employment. The hospital could create around 20,000 jobs, and we will ensure that a significant portion of the workforce comes from Rajinder Nagar. For short term, our primary focus will be on improving water supply, sanitation and roads. We’ll prioritise fixing sewage and water systems before we lay new roads, so we don’t have to dig them up later.