The Hindu : These veterans have voted out cynicism

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Thursday, Mar 18, 2004

Karnataka

Karnataka

These veterans have voted out cynicism

By Govind D. Belgaumkar

BANGALORE, MARCH 17. Most pensioners in Bangalore seem to value their right to vote. And they believe that the State can get an efficient government only if the people exercise the right.

M.S. Joshi, who retired from the Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO), has been exercising his franchise "without fail ever since I was 20." "I have not missed a single election," he says. He votes for the party that he has faith in. "I must vote for the right party and get the right government. And I have got it too, except once. I regretted my choice that time." The people's welfare is foremost on his mind when he favours a party in an election.

About the state of the nation, he says people are happier than before. "The economy is in a good shape though we need to curb corruption and terrorism," he feels.

J. Jayalakshmi, who retired as Section Officer at the High Court of Karnataka, says voting is a "sacred" duty. All members of her family vote in every election. She feels that by performing this duty, the people can ensure good governance. She makes it a point to elect "good administrators."

But A.K. Phalgunan, who retired from National Aeronautics Limited, strikes a different chord. "I have not voted so far. I would never know whether my vote went to the account of the person I voted for, would I?" he asks. Once, when he went to cast his vote, someone had already completed the task, he remarks.

Mr. Phalgunan says that he was witness to manipulation of ballot papers in an election at Kodihalli. That was a long time ago. He has decided to exercise his franchise in the coming elections because electronic voting machines will be used. He hopes that they cannot be manipulated.

S.L. Krishnamurthy (73), who retired as Assistant Superintendent (Posts and Telegraphs), says he has been voting for the past 50 years. "It is my birthright and I do not want to lose my chance."

What drives him to the polling booth? "The desire to ensure that the future of the country is in our own hands," he says. Mr. Krishnamurthy says he has seen been lucky enough to see the party of his choice come to power.

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