It was just like any other morning. But the fact that it was state election day made all the difference. I'm always thrilled on election day. Since 18, I haven't missed voting even a single time.. parliament, state or corporation; I'm sure to cast my vote. I thoroughly enjoy exercising my right to vote. Believe me, its an addictive exercise.....
My mother says, when you walk into the polling station; think about the person if it is corporation election; think about the political party if it is state election and think about the possible coalition if it is parliament elections. The first time she said this, I was confused and asked her to explain.. Being politically astute she refused to explain and asked me to figure it out myself.
At the dangerous age of early 20s, I contested her philosophy. Elections are supposed to change the governance dynamics. I was afraid following formulae might hinder the much needed change. But now, having crossed mid 20s and having voted in quite a few elections, I understood the wisdom behind it.
Modern day elections are contested by politically right people. All of them are corrupt in some form or other. Nepotism, favoritism, financial fudging....corruption no longer comes as a single word... I can only choose from a list of candidates.. I have no control over their selection process. This calls for understanding the process of elections and thereby democracy....
My priorities as a citizen are clear.....
- I need a local administrator who can attend to my grievances and help me resolve it on time....
- I need a stable government that can provide economic and social security... It is difficult to prosper in a nation filled with civil wars and political feudalism....
Elections gives me a chance to fulfill my priorities. Hence every election, I take all possible measures to vote... The ink mark on my finger assures me that, I have done everything possible to meet my objectives...
My mother says, when you walk into the polling station; think about the person if it is corporation election; think about the political party if it is state election and think about the possible coalition if it is parliament elections. The first time she said this, I was confused and asked her to explain.. Being politically astute she refused to explain and asked me to figure it out myself.
At the dangerous age of early 20s, I contested her philosophy. Elections are supposed to change the governance dynamics. I was afraid following formulae might hinder the much needed change. But now, having crossed mid 20s and having voted in quite a few elections, I understood the wisdom behind it.
Modern day elections are contested by politically right people. All of them are corrupt in some form or other. Nepotism, favoritism, financial fudging....corruption no longer comes as a single word... I can only choose from a list of candidates.. I have no control over their selection process. This calls for understanding the process of elections and thereby democracy....
My priorities as a citizen are clear.....
- I need a local administrator who can attend to my grievances and help me resolve it on time....
- I need a stable government that can provide economic and social security... It is difficult to prosper in a nation filled with civil wars and political feudalism....
Elections gives me a chance to fulfill my priorities. Hence every election, I take all possible measures to vote... The ink mark on my finger assures me that, I have done everything possible to meet my objectives...
