Indian democracy is alive and kicking in our “Mahan Bharat”. It’s, in fact, a Herculean task to conduct elections in a vast country like India, especially considering the situation the country faces like terror attacks, internal law and order and so on. In this context, we should applaud the efforts taken by our Election Commission and its officers and staff, in making all the preparations beforehand and conducting the elections in a systematic manner and peacefully.
However, what is rather painful is the percentage of voters casting their votes, is never encouraging. We have seen in many elections, how even in the prosperous cities and localities, the percentages of voting have been much lower than the average figures. In fact, in the localities which have the “upper strata of people”, the percentage of votes cast, has always been quite low. Whereas, the voters in villages and urban areas have always turned out in large numbers to cast their votes.
I, therefore have a suggestion or an idea. Why not link budget allocation to the percentage of votes polled? Thus, if an area votes 20 per cent, they will get only 20 per cent (or proportionately) and cannot crib later. The motto should be – no vote, no money, no amenities. If this is not practical, link it to supply of water, electricity, provision of infrastructure, and so on. Those who do not cast their votes (especially those from the upper strata or of posh localities like South Mumbai, Bandra, etc.) should be deprived of their amenities and their right to voice against lack of infrastructure facilities and so on. Normally, it’s very intriguing to note that the “upper strata” of people think they are privileged and that even if they do not exercise their votes, they will be extended all the amenities and benefits due to “VIP localities”.
I also feel voter apathy is existent because they have no connection with their corporators or MLAs or MPs and feel that their votes will have no effect – things would anyway continue to remain the same, they feel! If the elected representatives can have better connect with the people, some amount of the voter apathy could be reduced.
We need to work to demystify these elected posts and make them more accessible to people from all walks of society, ready to serve in these posts. Only then will there be a better exercise of electoral rights.
Let us remember that it is our prime duty to exercise our franchise in the “great general elections” to elect ‘our representatives of the people (MPs)’. So, do not take advantage of the weekend and the holiday on Election Day. It’s just once in five years. Do not forget to cast your valuable vote. Exercise your fundamental right.
All the eligible voters must, therefore, move out of their homes early in the morning on April 29 (Monday), go to the voting booths as applicable to them and exercise their franchise. And Yes, Vote Wisely. By and large, people should not misuse their right by voting for “NOTA”. Do not thus waste your precious vote.
It’s your vote that will decide the “fate” of the nation! So, get your “fate” sealed on April 29, 2019!
Mark the date to celebrate the ‘Festival of Democracy’ :
April 29, 2019!
(The views expressed by the author in the article are his/her own.)
