Although the Ranchi constituency registered a dismal voting percentage in the third phase of polling for State Assembly elections of Thursday, there were enthusiastic youths, most of them in the age group of 18-20, who were waiting for the day of polling anxiously to experience first time voting.
The millennial voters were ready to cast votes from the early morning itself and their enthusiasm seemed unparalleled as they dominated social media with their pictures of inked index fingers. Their experience was a mix of satisfaction and confusion, with strong opinions about the parties.
“Voting is a huge responsibility on the shoulders of today’s youth. I am well acquainted with politics but it took time to decide what party I wanted to side with. We are literally making the country’s future and I cannot stress enough on the importance of that, especially, in today’s age with bills like CAB and the Transgender Bill, 2019 which makes me scared of what is to come,” Said Razi Alam, age 18 preparing for JEE Mains.
“I went to vote for the first time full of excitement. I couldn’t take my eyes off the clock, the constant turning on and off of the light bulb wouldn’t let me sleep. I was ready to vote at 6:30 a.m. and woke my father up to cast our vote. We reached the polling booth soon and was honoured as the first voter. Being a first time, first voter is a priceless achievement. I am happy that youth are becoming aware by understanding the meaning of voting. They are our future. Voting is the base of nation building hence, every citizen must vote,” said, Akanska Kailash.
“I was so confused that I can’t even express it in words. It felt like everyone was asking me to do different things and I just stood there, dumbfounded. I went there and the polling staff there told me that I had to keep the button pressed for a long time so that the receipt could be printed. Numerous people’s names were there which made me further confused, but then I composed myself and searched for the number I had to press. Two people were sitting outside the room, who ensured that everything went smoothly. Overall, the process was convenient.” Said, Zoa Anwar, age 18 studying ELM at St. Xavier’s Ranchi.
“I was excited but to me personally, it didn’t feel as something very special. The whole thing was well organized and the polling booth was in close proximity to my house making the travel easy. I clicked the button and at the first time it didn’t beep so, I had to do it a second time. All I can say that I hope my party wins and that better days hopefully await us.” Said Mihika Drolia, age 19, studying B. Com in St. Xavier’s School Ranchi.
“Well, my biggest concern was who to vote for. It’s weird how none of the school leaders went into politics and the people who didn’t even go to school get to decide out future. Thus, I voted for ‘NOTA,’ I could have just slept at home in peace, but I know my duty is to vote and hence, I am here.” Said Rashi Kanodia, age 19 studying engineering in SRM, Chennai.