We can hear the sounds of an election long before polling day arrives. There is a lot of fanfare, as different parties carry out rallies to convince the voters – or so they tell themselves- that more and more people are on their side. With the general elections around the corner, political parties are busy announcing their manifestos. They are leaving no stone unturned to woo the voters, with guarantees galore. While doing so, they have taken care of almost all segments of the Indian population. Gone are the days when only full-time politicians plunged into the poll arena. Now the field is wide open and those on bail, those who may go jail and those facing some probe or the other are also keen on trying their luck at the listings. And who knows the highest court of the country- that is the people’s court might give some of them an opportunity to represent the state in the parliament. If this is not democracy at play what else is? No wonder the whole world fascinated by this poll dance. Another fascinating point I notice is that most of these seat aspirants are crorepathis. And some of their wives are richer than their hubbies. Campaigning for general elections was gaining momentum and political parties are busy exchanging accusations against each other. However, there is no talk about the quality of candidates who will walk into the temple of democracy, the Loksabha. A large percentage of the candidates have criminal cases pending against them as they are blatantly corrupt and continue to indulge to nefarious activities in full public view. Should we not raise this issue? Voters must question their representatives and ensure that honest, able and visionary leaders who are committed to serving the people are voted in. While we support initiatives to increase voting percentages, we must also highlight the need for candidates with integrity. And the latest trend is “Party Hopping”, because elections are fought on the basis of caste and religion which is the biggest threat to our democracy.Â
Kodandera Mamatha Subbaiah
