Over the past few months, there have been many campaigns like Jaago-Re, Lead India and so on, all of which had a single aim - motivate people to come out and vote. But what is the end-result?

Bangalore voted on 23rd April and the voting figures were dismal, an average of 45%. Bangalore South, considered as the most urban constituency, where youth were expected to come out in large numbers and show their involvment in the political system, saw a turnout of only 43%. Bangalore North and Central were no better, both having an average of just 43-44%. On the other hand contrast this with the voting figures in rural areas Bangalore Rural - 55%, Chikkodi - 68%, Tumkur - 65%. From this it is clear that rural voters need no motivation. They know their rights and duties and will happily participate in the democratic process. On the other hand, urban voters need to be pampered and all they do is 43%? I have spoken to many people who didnt vote and these are the common reasons:

1) I have never voted till today, why should I vote now?

2) My one vote wont change anything

3) I have got a holiday today, let me relax, I don't want to stand in a queue and vote

4) What has the Govt. done for me, why should I vote?

5) All are crooks, whom will I vote for?

6) I dont have a voter id/I am not registered, who will run around to get registered?

Thus, voter apathy continues, the so-called affluent class and youth talk a lot, curse politicians and talk about Obama and change. But when it comes to a simple task of spending a few minutes to cast one's vote, they are found wanting. People rave and rant about moral policing, communalism, dynastic politics and all other issues which agitate them, but when the time comes to do something, they are found wanting. Looks like it will take another hundred Jago-Re compaigns to make people exercise their democratic right of voting.

Bangalore has missed its chance to make a difference. I sincerely hope that atleast other cities will give up its apathy and participate in the festival of democracy. To close, here is an interesting poem about the importance of voting :

Voting

by Bernard Howe

Voting is our given right,

which men have died to keep.

Voting shows our peoples might,

so our country won't get into deep.

But there are those who never vote,

and constantly seem to complain.

Patriotism they don't promote,

and their rights they choose to abstain.

Every vote does really count,

to let our officials know.

For their actions they must account,

or their ratings will never grow.

So come next election time,

go cast your vote with pride.

Voting doesn't cost a dime,

plus the out come you help decide