Development of education infra, affordable healthcare, enhanced job opportunities, environmental sustainability, rural development, et al. constitute the bulk of expectations of young voters from political parties and candidates in the fray.
The 2024 general elections, scheduled from April 19 to June 1, will have 1.85 crore young electors in the 18-19 age group who will be casting their vote for the first time. In Odisha, as per the Election Commission data, a total of 3.32 crore voters are eligible to exercise their voting rights. Of them, 7.54 lakh are in the 18-19 age group whose votes are going to play a crucial role in determining the fate of the candidates in the fray. India will go to the polls in a marathon seven-phase exercise to elect 543 members of the 18th Lok Sabha. This apart, Assembly elections will also be held simultaneously in Odisha and other states such as Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
OrissaPOST spoke to a few new voters to find out what they expect of the future government and how important voting is for them.
Srusti Mishra (Economics student): I am very excited that I will be voting for the first time. I think voting is not just a right we have been given, but it is also a responsibility we must discharge wisely. I expect the government to fulfill the voters’ expectations and demands. Some common demands include focus and prioritisation of education funding, student loans, scholarships, development of educational institutions, affordable healthcare, environmental protection, and social justice initiatives.
Ananta Prasad Pradhan (MSc student): Voting is our basic right in a democracy. Through this, we choose public representatives of our choice. I am very happy and optimistic to go to vote for the first time. I will opt for a leader who will focus on education, job opportunities, healthcare accessibility, environmental sustainability, and social justice. As a first-time voter, I feel a greater priority and need to consider actions that impact the future of our community and country. It is very important to give a chance to different political parties in order to evaluate who gives us more priority. I would also consider the integrity and character of the candidates, their leadership qualities, and ability to address the challenges facing our community and country. I believe all should vote judiciously rather than make it in a rush and regret for the next five years. Choose the right leader at the right time without any pressure. Don’t fall to any kind of temptation like money or alcohol.
Prabir Kumar Sahoo (Information Technology and Management student): As a young voter, my focus is to identify the political party that will excel in expanding the education system, provide enhanced job opportunities for youth, foster unicorn startups nationwide, develop college and university infrastructure into global standards, establish more institutes in line of IITs and NITs, and achieve milestones in IT, defense, and health sectors.
Swarupa Sutar (student): I am happy that I will be voting for the first time. I want the government should solve all the problems people are facing in rural areas. Currently, many rural areas don’t have internet facility. If the government steps up internet connectivity in rural areas, it will help the needy immensely and they will be able to know about the world. Also, the government should introduce schemes which will create more jobs for them.
Subham Kumar Kar (student): I am really excited about voting for the first time. It makes me feel grown up, and become a citizen of my country in true sense. Now, I have the power to make someone win in elections. I want the government to provide citizens the highest quality education at a very affordable cost. At the same time, it should value sports and recreation activities as well.
Bhagyashree Das (Microbiology student): We will vote for that person, and not the party, who is genuinely going to work for our area. S/he should particularly work towards the development of education, scholarship eligibility for students, increase facilities for higher studies as well as create more job opportunities in every field. And also who facilitates health insurance schemes for people. Simultaneously, we will also vote for those who stand by us during emergencies, and make rules after taking into consideration each citizen’s concerns.
Sharmistha Mallick (student): I expect the parties to support candidates and policies that align with my values and principles, such as promoting equality, sustainability, and social justice. I would also prioritise candidates who demonstrate integrity, competence, and a commitment to serving the public good. I also expect that the govt should take initiatives for people living in rural areas or slums. As I am voting for the very first time, it is going to be a memorable and pleasant experience for me.
ARINDAM GANGULY, OP