With the recently concluded three rounds of the Elections, it is clear that the disturbing trend of low voting in urban centers continues. What was more shocking was the low voting of Mumbaikars. A city which was so recently hit by one of the worst acts of terrorism – which saw a mass of citizens holding candlelight vigils and bringing down the CM of the state, was expected to do better. It was saddening to note that people continued their disinterest in the voting process. By doing so maybe these people are under the illusion that they are rejecting the electoral process but they are not. They are very much a part of the electoral process. By abstaining to vote, they are simply not registering their choice and exercising their franchise. Their apathy is not going to do anything to the system. On the contrary, they would reinforce the belief of the political parties to follow their old methods because the educated elite would just talk.
I believe there is a form called Form 17 which one can fill if one does not wish to vote for any candidate. At least one can make the effort to register the non vote which would be a way of registering your protest if you do not support any of the candidates standing. But by abstaining, what does one achieve??? Your shirk the biggest responsibility you have in a democracy – the power of your vote. I feel it should be made mandatory to vote. All those people who have no qualms in availing of their holiday meant for voting and then cooling their asses at home, should be made accountable in some way – maybe losing one day’s salary or some such thing.
Those who complain that their names went missing in the electoral rolls, cannot be excused too. Why couldn’t they have checked whether their names are figuring in the rolls or not in advance. The EC keeps on publishing the names which are also available online, so it is not such a difficult procedure. One has to ensure that one’s right in not compromised in any way.
Overall, it has been disheartening to note that despite huge campaigns urging the urban folks to vote, people stay away from the polling booths. Miracles do not happen on their own, one has to make them happen. We expect a lot of change from the politicians and the political setup. Change as they say begins with you. Change your approach and then expect others to change around you. Actions speak louder than words, always !! It’s high time the Indian electorate realized this .