Indra S
Today, everyone has the right to exercise their constitutional right to vote. After all, it is the very essence of the world’s largest democracy. When each individual in the country exercises this right, it strengthens democracy and gives the public the power to choose who leads them.
In the ever-changing landscape of politics the only constant is the power we hold as the navigators of the democracy. Hence, as much as it is our right it is also our responsibility to exercise the entitled right.
13 states are going into polls in the Phase 2 of the ongoing elections namely; Assam (5), Bihar (5), Chhattisgarh (3), Karnataka (14), Kerala (20), Madhya Pradesh (7), Maharashtra (8), Manipur (1), Rajasthan (13), Tripura (1), Uttar Pradesh (8), West Bengal (3), J&K (1).
14 seats in Karnataka are being contested namely; Udupi-Chikmagalur, Hassan, Dakshina Kannada, Chitradurga, Tumkur, Mandya, Mysore, Chamarajanagar, Bangalore Rural, Bangalore North, Bangalore Central, Bangalore South, Chikkballapur and Kolar.
Aside from the typical reasons why voting is crucial, there are some less-discussed yet critical reasons why voting in elections should ‘not’ be skipped. And they are as follows:
Combating Apathy And Cynicism
Not voting can lead to political apathy, reinforcing the idea that individual votes don’t count. By voting, citizens counteract this mindset, fostering civic engagement.
Disenfranchising Vulnerable Groups
Historically, certain groups have faced barriers to voting, whether due to discrimination, literacy, or socioeconomic factors. As a testament to this ‘Shompen tribe in Andaman & Nicobar Islands’ voted for the very first time this time.
Preventing Vote Manipulation And Fraud
Low voter turnout can make it easier for malpractices like vote rigging or ballot stuffing to occur. Voting is a vital civic duty with far-reaching consequences on democracy, representation, policy-making, accountability, and social change.
