The Great State Election Fest

  As 13th October looks steady to approach, the state and Election Commission are gearing up bigtime to make sure no stone remains unturned. On the advice of the EC, the state has decided to close down commercial and industrial establishments, hotels, malls, multiplexes and restaurants, on E-day. The measure aims to make sure that every eligible voter turns up to cast his vote during the elections. But it transpires to be another failed attempt to ensure a big voting turn-out.
  The present week has witnessed election campaigning by almost every political party to woo voters. Armed with huge posters, party pamphlets and loudspeakers, they tread every street in their locality to plead us to vote for the party. On certain occasions, the candidates themselves visit these houses to make sure that the votes are cast in their favor. As they all gear up for the democratic festival, the bookies are busy placing their odds. The common man seems to be lost in the madness, unable to decide the right candidate, what with enormous promises that galore each of their agendas. It is certainly easier to vote for Academy awards.
  The state has certainly added to its citizen's worries, spinning out policies that make voting mandatory. In a free country like India, is it not true that the right on whether to vote or not should be to the sole discretion of a citizen? It were better if the EC would have stringent norms on the eligibility of a candidate, which would make it easier for the common man to pick out the nobler one. The move would be better for us, than a policy which almost approaches talibanisation. Not to mention the heavy losses that would incur due to such a move.
Copyright  ©2009 Y.K.Campwala