KOCHI: The Assembly election is round the corner and everyone in the state is gearing up for the big event. This time a large number of youngsters will be exercising their franchise for the first time. Kochi Express does a rece of how enlightened the youth are about the election process and how much they know about the candidates.
A group of youngsters inside the Centre Square Mall. Over ice creams and fruit juices, their talks veer towards elections and their words paint a vivid picture of utter ignorance!
One of the youths confidently points out that Saradha Mohan is contesting on LDF ticket from Paravoor, but starts to stutter when asked the names of the other candidates from the same constituency.
“We are not sure about our constituencies and candidates contesting in the election since we don’t have interest in such matters,” said a group of girls at a shopping mall in the city.
It is also worthy to note that apart from some vibrant political discussions in colleges, politics is not a matter of concern for youngsters. It seems the youngsters have lost faith in electing leaders. When they were asked about their expectations regarding the next government, most of them responded that they do not expect much from anyone. “I will vote for a person who is accessible at any time. Most of the representatives leave constituencies after polls and return only by the end of the term. The basic requirement is that representative should available to solve our problems.” says Arjun, a degree student from Paravoor.
Renu, an LLB student from Calicut and Viji a degree student from Trippunithura said they are not interested in politics. “I don’t find any difference between LDF or UDF or even NDA. Therefore, I did not mind voting for anyone. Voting is a reflex action, all because I have to vote,” says Renu. “I’ll give my vote to whom ever my parents point out,” Anu, an MBA student and said she didn’t follow politics.
Aware of Needs
The students are, however, very much aware of their needs. A group of NCC cadets said that the main competition in Kerala is still between two leading fronts. “Being a person from Idukki, I am very bothered about the fall in the price of rubber. So my choice will be coloured by this,” says Lison.