As the Lok Sabha Elections are getting closer, first-time voters in colleges are quite thrilled. For one, it gives them a sense of being an adult. More than that, they are glad to be a part of the process that elects our leaders. In a nutshell, they are eager to know what it feels like to cast their votes.
“For first-time voters like me, it’s a huge excitement,” says Arjun Vijayakumar, a student at Brindavan College of Engineering, Bengaluru. “Not only it makes me an adult, but also instills in me a sense of power. It also urges me to think deeply and make the right decision. For that, I analyse the previous works of the candidates,” he adds.
According to Swathi S. Nair, second year BA English Literature student at St. Xavier’s College, Aluva, every single vote matters. “It is not that I alone can make a big difference. But, I believe that each vote plays a crucial role in forming the government.” Akarsh Justine, third year BA English Literature student at Oasis School of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru, concurs. “It is our right to choose our government,” he says. At the same time, Swathi hopes that whoever takes on the mantle of our country will uphold the values of democracy. “Those who come in power should not forget that India is a democratic and secular nation,” she adds.
For some, April 23 is a big day. For instance, Irene Sara Zacahriah, a second-year BA English Literature student at St. Xavier’s College, has been waiting for this moment ever since she learnt about Indian democracy in school. “My dream will come true on April 23,” she is all smiles. “I just hope that Indians will do justice to their power to elect a leader and choose the right person,” says Irene.
Ann Maria Thomas, another student from St. Xavier’s College, is more than happy to cast her first vote. “I feel great,” she says. “Casting vote is my contribution to the growth of my country,” she adds.
Sujeesh Xavier, who pursues MBA in Marketing at Oasis School of Advanced Studies, does not believe in NOTA, an option many prefer these days owing to their distrust in the government. “Most people have lost faith in our country’s system, and it’s frightening to realise that many people choose not to vote. However, what they don’t understand is that election really matters. The fact is that people tend to lose power over their country when they choose to be silent about the things that matter,” he says.
The countdown has begun. They are watching candidates in their respective constituencies, and are preparing for their first vote. They truly believe their vote will make a difference.
Not only does it make me an adult, but also instills in me a sense of power
– Arjun vijayakumar, Brindavan college of engg
I feel great. Casting vote is my contribution to the growth of my country – Ann Maria thomas, st xavier’s college
Those who come in power should not forget that India is a democratic and secular nation – Swathi s. nair, b a english literature
(Inputs: Lujiya Michael, Punam Devi)
