Thiruvananthapuram : First-timers keep an open mind on polls, candidates
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With the campaigning for forthcoming Assembly elections going on in full steam across the state, DC talks to first time voters to get their views on polls, candidates, political parties and issues.
Goutham Krishnan, 20, who is preparing for competitive exams, said youngsters do not have a biased mindset and that helped in selecting the right person. For them candidate profile is more important than the party ideology.
According to him social media campaigning also helped in reaching out to masses. “Despite facing several accusations, the incumbent government could do its job. But I would like to opt for a fresh start, giving chance to the new alliance,” he added.
Sruthi S, 19, engineering student at LBS Institute of Technology for Women, said the vote of youth would decide state's future. “Family discussions can also influence us but we largely depend on our own rationale. Social networking sites also help voters to know about manifestoes,” she said.
She said the new government should ensure strict enforcement of law against smoking, use of drugs and other psychotropic substances. However, Sruthi believes that the present government's liquor policy looked impractical.
Saikrishna R.P., 21, media and film student, Malayalam University said his vote would be against fascist forces. “They are dictating people what to eat and how to dress,” he added.
He said 93-year-old V.S. Achuthanandan using Facebook was a milestone in Kerala politics since social media provided a platform to discuss current issues.
According to him Startup Village was one of the biggest achievements of Oommen Chandy government.
Said Anjana K.S., 20, English Literature student, Govt. College for Women: “I study about each candidate before going to the polling booth. People in Kerala are educated and they would not get influenced by posts on social networking websites.”
According to Vivek M Jude, 19, student, Mar Baselios College of Engineering and Technology, election was the only time when ruling parties gave proper consideration to people. “Social media campaigning would not affect my thoughts but it definitely helped the parties to reach out more to the people,” he added.
