Innovative initiatives in Bengaluru to boost voter turnout ahead of phase 2 Lok Sabha elections

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Karnataka and several other states head to the polls for the second phase of the Lok Sabha elections on April 26, Bengaluru is witnessing an unprecedented surge in creative campaigns and incentives aimed at boosting voter participation.

Historically, Bengaluru's urban population has been known for its low voter turnout. This time around, restaurants, private companies, and mobility aggregator apps are taking the lead in driving change.

The 2019 Lok Sabha elections showed that not many people in Bengaluru voted. In places such as Bengaluru South, Central, and North, only about 53.7%, 54.3%, and 54.7% of people voted.

Even though Karnataka had a 68% voting rate overall, Bengaluru had fewer people voting compared to other areas.

In response to the Election Commission of India's efforts to raise voter awareness, local businesses and organisations have stepped up by launching innovative initiatives to inspire citizens to exercise their democratic rights.

The Karnataka High Court has granted permission to the Bruhat Bangalore Hotels’ Association to offer complimentary or discounted meals to voters, provided they adhere to the Model Code of Conduct.

Members of the Bruhat Bangalore Hotels Association (BBHA) are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to incentivise voters.

While establishments like Kamat Hosaruchi and Iyengar’s Oven Fresh are offering a 10% discount, others like Cafe Udupi Ruchi are delighting voters with free mocktails.

Hotel Nisarga Grand is taking it a notch higher by offering butter dosa, ghee laddoo, and fruit juice at absolutely no cost.

Popular eatery, Mr. Philly's American Cheeseburgers, is enticing voters with a generous 30% discount to the first 100 customers who proudly display their inked fingers on April 26.

Gopi Chand Cherukuri, Co-Founder of Mr. Philly's, expressed optimism that this initiative would galvanise Bengaluru's citizens to vote and make a meaningful impact.

Additionally, Wonderla Holidays, a renowned amusement park, is rolling out a 15% discount on tickets for voters.