First-time voters concerned about education, inflation

Veena G & Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: First-time voters in Karnataka are likely to play a crucial role in the upcoming state assembly elections. With a sizable population of young voters, their participation in the electoral process is crucial for shaping the future of the state.

These voters often bring a fresh perspective to the table and can significantly impact the outcome of the election. As the state assembly approaches, here’s what the first-time votes of Karnataka have to say. It is noticed that first-time voters are aware of how elections have an impact on their educational experience. A 19-year-old student who is currently studying in college under the syllabus prescribed by the National Education Policy 2020 is unsatisfied with the policy.  

“The government should work towards creating a supportive environment that encourages students to pursue their passions and interests and not just grades or employability. There are these bizarre rules under NEP that are designed to keep a certain category of people from achieving a better livelihood. It is sad to see that Karnataka is the first state to adopt this.” First-time voters are also aware of how different their voting pattern is from that of their parents. Many young voters seem to prioritise a political party's overall performance over the local impact.

Medha, a 20-year-old student, says, "When my parents vote they look at the MLA with whom the residents have more contacts with so they could immediately discuss sewage or water issues we face. Since I am living with my parents, I don't face this issue right now. Everyone in my family votes for BJP, they talk about the good economy or good international politics but they've treated the secular aspect of India.

Right now, as a student living with my parents, I cannot focus on the ground-level aspect of the MLAs like my parents do, so keeping in mind what the party stands for at large and its policies would influence my vote more than civic problems." Akanksha, a 21-year-old student is disillusioned by the choices before her. She questions why political parties such as AAP have suddenly become active in the state.

She said, “Where were they all this time? I find it very weird that they have appeared out of nowhere. Maybe this election can change things in Karnataka because this state has become a BJP hotspot in the south for the Sangh Parivar. If AAP or JD(S) comes into power, Karnataka's polity will change. Also looking at the leaders in front of me, I feel very discouraged to vote.” She expresses her frustration implying that political parties don't want to win, they just want other parties to lose. Yashaswini, a 21-year-old law student, felt discontent with the last four years.

"There were so many price hikes for fuel, food and other basic commodities. It was difficult for both the poor and the middle class to adjust to these. The same classes were also affected during COVID-19 which was not handled very well. We should be better prepared for such a thing to occur in the future too, I will consider these mainly when I vote."