The youth of today are responsible and mindful of the community they live in. Aware of the issues plaguing us, they are taking baby steps to improve society by being proactive and being the change. Infact, the young electorate is taking matters in their own hands — Exercising their right to vote, and making sure that a capable leader comes to the fore, Karnataka chief electoral officer Sanjeev Kumar recently said, as per draft electoral rolls of 2018, the number of young voters stood at 145.42 lakh as compared to 7.18 lakh in 2013! The number could go up as there’s still time for inclusion of names in the electoral rolls. To see youngsters coming forward and vote is a heartening change, and definitely a step up. Happy about the increase in the number of youth voters, we find out what matters more to the youth in the country.
Educated voters want to vote for a person capable of keeping their promises. Senior analyst Prem Sagar Damle explains, “More number of young voters means that more educated people are voting, which is a good sign. Youngsters also need valid options on the voting ballot so that they have the confidence that they have voted for the right person. As long as the options are not great, the situation is going to be the same. Improvement can’t be expected if the right candidate is not standing for election. Corruption is never going to stop and is not something connected to only one person, it is widespread. As long as people don’t realise corruption is bad, nothing will change. While voting, I need to have the confidence that the person I have voted for actually fulfils his promises.”
There are those that fear the “what if” and let it govern their actions. Sahana T, an investment company executive feels, “Young voter now think much more about who they will vote for, and why before placing votes which is a good thing. But, sadly, people prefer voting for candidates they like, rather than those actually doing something substantial. The voice against corruption should be louder. Not many voters speak out due to a fear of what will happen when they do speak up. I also think that a proper system should be put in place to ensure that people in position are loyal and honest to the work they do”.
For software engineer Anand Kumar Jha, awareness is the most important, “Youngsters are aware, and concerned about problems within the community. I feel this is the reason why so many young voters are making their ballot count. Problems arise only because bureaucrats and politicians are not performing their duties. Youngsters should ensure that the correct person is put into position. Corruption can be stopped only over a period of time, and each person should put in an effort towards this.”
Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer Sanjeev Kumar feels, “Anyone who is eligible should be registered and should vote. It’s a very positive thing that more and more youngsters are coming forward and placing votes. It’s great that youngsters are concerned about the city and that they are taking steps to make sure that the society becomes a better place to live in.”
