Whom to choose first-time voters' dilemma

Mahesh Sharma

Mandi Ahmedgarh, Jan 18

First-time voters, predominantly teenagers and students, are disillusioned over choice of candidates ahead of the Assembly elections, scheduled on February 20.

Constitution of governments on the basis of caste and creed, frequent shifting of loyalties of candidates, alleged ‘auctioning’ of party ticket and most prevalent trend of alluring masses through freebies have disappointed them. The first-time voters wish to elect only those deserving candidates who intend to provide transparent governance, ensuring self-reliance, peace, free healthcare, quality education, dignified lifestyle for all categories and assured future for intelligentsia.

Social characteristics such as age, gender, relationship status, educational level, religious tolerance, residence and occupation were also cited as the criteria for choosing candidates of their choice. Shruti Goyal, a second year BSc student from the Mahavir Road area, said the recent political chaos in the state had confused the first-time voters over choosing candidates for the Assembly polls.

“What to talk of youngsters like us, even experienced and seasoned statesmen will find it difficult to arrive at a conclusion from claims of different political parties as none of these has emerged untainted in implementing policies projected in their manifestos,” said Shruti Goyal, adding that she would vote only for a candidate who would work for education and career of the young generation.

Divya Sharma, a Class XII student of MGMN Senior Secondary School, said malpractices such as commercialisation of the election process, horse trading in local bodies, state Assembly and Parliament should be completely banned.

“Though I come from a political family, I will only vote for a candidate who is capable and committed for resolving problems of residents of his or her constituency,” Divya said while maintaining that NOTA would be her option in case she does not find a suitable candidate.

Another youth, Dhruv Joshi, of Malaudh village said most of the politicians fail to comprehend that youngsters’ demands and aspirations were different from elders.

“Candidates aspiring to be a part of the government should understand that we are the future of the state and the nation. Those winning elections should acknowledge it and provide us resources and training, besides giving this region a transformation, which we want,” he said.