The 94-year-old homemaker, Raj Sud, who has voted in almost every election held in independent India, has a clear favorite in the current national election. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party are predicted to win for a third consecutive term. Modi is praised for his honesty and efforts to beautify the country, but critics argue that he has undermined democracy by diminishing the status of India as a secular nation through attacks on minorities and limiting dissent and press freedom.
Financial consultant Dhiren Singh, 58, believes that political parties have been attempting to polarize voters on various grounds. For the country’s 200 million young voters, the primary concern is unemployment, with the rate standing at over 7% in March. Students like Manya Sachdev, 22, and Ankita Jasra, 18, also express a desire for stable employment opportunities and a concern that talented individuals are leaving India for better prospects abroad due to the current situation.
Many urban voters in New Delhi believe that issues such as corruption, governance, and inflation require immediate attention, but feel that the opposition has failed to effectively address these concerns. Ajay Jasra, 56, criticizes the opposition for being “completely paralyzed” and not fulfilling their role effectively. Niranjan Kapasi, 89, blames the entire political class for manipulating the system and exploiting taxpayer money, leaving him disillusioned with the current state of politics in India.
Despite the challenges and disappointments, there is a common desire among voters in New Delhi for a cleaner and more accountable political system. Yoga instructor Ajay Sud, 63, emphasizes the need for honesty and ethical behavior among politicians. Kuldip Chadha, 82, highlights the hope for future generations to live in a more honest and progressive system, even amidst the corruption scandals and manipulation by politicians. Shruti Sud, 34, a sales and marketing professional, also expresses a desire for more accountable and educated politicians to lead the country towards a brighter future for all citizens.
With the national election underway, voters in New Delhi are reflecting on the key issues facing the country and expressing their hopes for a better political system. While some, like Raj Sud, favor Prime Minister Modi and his party for their efforts to develop and beautify India, others are concerned about unemployment and the brain drain as talented individuals seek opportunities abroad. The opposition’s failure to effectively address issues such as corruption and governance has left voters disillusioned with the political class, sparking a desire for cleaner and more ethical leadership.
As the election progresses, citizens across age groups and backgrounds are united in their desire for a more transparent, accountable, and honest political system. Despite the challenges and divisions, there is a shared hope for a better future for the next generations in India. Whether it be the need for stability in employment opportunities, governance, or ethical behavior among politicians, voters in New Delhi are looking towards the election as an opportunity to shape the country’s future and bring about positive change.
