Hyderabad: Aspiring Politicians Hire Youngsters for Voter Data Collection

Hyderabad: Tens of youngsters who have completed their graduation or waiting for admissions into higher courses have found an employment source in the form of politicians who are aspiring for tickets in the upcoming elections. This trend has been witnessed in a few constituencies falling under the GHMC jurisdiction.

These candidates have hired such youngsters to tour the former’s constituencies, gather information of voters, confirm their presence in the addresses as per the voter list. The youngsters are also paid a decent amount as monthly salary in addition to perks like allowances and providing food and travel. Some of them are paid up to Rs 20,000 per month.

One such youngster Chandra Shekar from Kukatpally said that he was waiting for admission into the MBA course, but since there is time for it, he joined the candidate. “ We are hired for four months and might also be extended till the elections. Right now we are verifying the voters' details. We have been told that the nature of work may change later,” he said.

Another youth Sravan Kumar from Moosapet who is also on a break before taking up higher education said that the amount paid by the candidates is decent enough to save it for their pocket money and other needs as well. “ Also by working closely with the candidates, officials and the people, we get to know how the election process happens,” he said.