That voter turnout in the sixth phase of the election was high is an encouraging sign and points to greater voter awareness (April 25). It is heartening to note that voting by first-time voters has been rather impressive. Post-poll, our hope is that a strong government will be formed by a single party which can then work swiftly to deliver the goods. If this is not possible, we need a committed, reliable and strong coalition.
R. Sampath,
Chennai
It is heartening to note that our youth, ever so busy on social networking sites, found the time to leave their virtual world and give shape to their real world (April 25). It is a fact that social networking and the efforts of the Election Commission played a crucial role in this. At a time when developed countries are worried about low voter-participation, we are able to show the world that we are the biggest democracy in the real sense of the term.
Vivek R. Jadhavar,
Osmanabad, Maharashtra
It is unfortunate that in the Maximum City of Mumbai, a dismal voting figure of 52.66 per cent was all that could be notched up (April 25). It is rather puzzling why Mumbai witnesses such voter apathy in spite of being home to many a political stalwart. In that respect, cities like Kolkata and Chennai are to be appreciated as people there are more conscious of their basic duty toward the nation.
V.S. Ganeshan,
Bangalore
This is to record my deep disappointment with my fellow citizens of South Chennai, which is said to have recorded a voter turnout of 57.86 per cent, the lowest for any constituency in Tamil Nadu (April 25). If an elderly and sick woman could come in an ambulance and vote (Some editions, “One ‘patient’ voter this,” April 25), what were all those who stayed back doing? If they didn’t want to vote, they should be deprived of all the governmental subsidies. As far as voter participation is concerned, India must follow the Australian example with more stringent rules.
Soundravalli Kulandaiswamy,
Chennai
Much disappointment has been expressed over south Chennai’s low voter turnout. But this is inspiring. My aunt, a senior citizen, left Chennai for Pune on April 22 to attend a social engagement in the family. Though she was to fly back on April 24 by 1 p.m., on a whim she decided to take her voter-ID card and voter slip with her. At Pune, the staff of the private airline told her at check-in at 9 a.m. that the direct flight had been rescheduled and that she could reach Chennai only after 8 p.m. She stood her ground and told the airline that they would be denying her her right to vote. They arranged for her to fly to Chennai via Mumbai and Bangalore, changing three aircraft on the way. At Bangalore, she got in touch with us saying that she might not make it on time, but we egged her on. She landed in Chennai at 5.15 p.m. and the driver of the airport-based call-taxi service drove her straight to the booth in south Chennai. She managed to cast her vote a minute short of 6 p.m.
N. Krishna,
Chennai
