As the countdown for polling in Ranchi, Hatia and Kanke Assembly constituencies forming a sizeable part of the city begins, the Pioneer tried to explore whether the so-called urban elites were ready to get out of their cozy comfort on a virtual holiday or will they stamp their choice for their representative for a much needed change. In conversation with a number of prominent faces of the city it was revealed that both the elite and the middle class have fastened their belt to vote for a change this election. With the level of enthusiasm for voting reaching its crescendo, Ranchi city is likely to expect a huge turnout.
When the pioneer inquired as to what have the prominent candidates of the urban seats have done this time to pull voters out to vote, they gave the following answers:
Ganesh Reddy, Former Secretary at Citizen Foundation, Jharkhand
The centre of attraction is Modi right now. He has used every possible form of communication to spread his reach. BJP wants a majority rule and has guaranteed a number of schemes to attract people from all ages and class groups. Opposition is also targeting BJP’s unfulfilled promises to get a charge. With urban and rural people having different needs and demand, candidates targeted them accordingly.
Sanjay Mishra, Member, State Commission for Protection of Child Rights
Contestants kept kids and ladies in strong focus. Assuring employment for youth, better roads for villages, adequate water supply for city, and stern law & order for everyone, no stone was left unturned to captivate the masses. Go out and vote first, then relish the day ahead. I hope for an above 70 per cent voting attendance this time.
Poonam Anand, Social Worker
Campaigners were keener on making voters aware to vote for their party, rather than voting in general. They tried penetrating into every household though. Central government helped a lot in promoting election on social network websites like Facebook and Twitter. After 14 years of unsteady government, people want a rock-solid party to rule and that is why many people will go to vote this time.
Sharad Poddar, President, Jharkhand Small Scale Industries Association.
It's not merely a holiday to lay back at home. It's a day to make sure your next four years are prosperous. In lok Sabha elections the voting turnout was good. This time people are more aware and enthusisastic. Even employees at our organizations who won't have indelible ink on their fingers would not be granted a leave on poll day.
Dr. Balram, Advisor to the Commissioner of Supreme Court
Urban elites concentrate more in analyzing the candidates in drawing-room discussions. Nor do they have high expectations from government, and nor the patience to wait in line to cast their vote. Rural people need a leader to at least fulfill their fundamental requirements. They have a great zeal to vote. "