Every vote counts, and high voter turnout is essential for a healthy democracy. People who don't vote are essentially letting others decide the future for them.
As Goa gets ready to vote on May 7, a large number of Goans, the responsible ones, who are based out of the State for employment, are making their way back home.
Taking their right to vote seriously, Goans based in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Pune and other Indian cities have already reached home, and their only intention is to cast their votes and exercise their democratic right.
Priyanka Monteiro, based out of Hyderabad and working in an MNC, came to Goa a few days ago, so that she is well rested on the day of the elections.
“I truly believe that a huge voter turnout is essential to strengthen the legitimacy of the government. When a large portion of the population participates in elections, the resulting government is seen as more legitimate and representative of the will of the people. With a weak turnout at the elections, the results could be biased,” Priyanka told GT Digital.
She added, “Voting for a genuine representative is really important, one who will not only help uplift the nation, but also work as per the sacred Constitution.”
Kaiser Colaco, who works for an agriculture based company in Bangalore, is on the train travelling 12 hours to cast his vote in Vasco.
“For the last few years I have been voting every election. If we don’t vote now, we don’t have the right to say that there is so much bad happening around us. I want someone with a vision to save our Goa from all the illegalities which are taking place,” said Kaiser, who will leave Goa the same evening and return to Bangalore.
Similarly, Maria Fernandes, who works in Pune, has booked her flight to Goa on Monday night.
“I have seen Goa going from bad to worse. The ways things are shaping in the name of development is just mind boggling. While switching parties after being elected is a matter of the representative’s morals, true democracy depends on our trust in the Constitution. But as a citizen, I need to get my duty done – which is voting,” said Maria, who will be staying in Goa till the end of the week.
In contradiction to those making their way home to vote as responsible citizens, a picture of many Goans boarding a special Velankanni Express train to head to Tamil Nadu evoked anger on social media.
These citizens, who will not cast their vote tomorrow (Tuesday), boarded the train despite the church requesting them not to do so on the eve of the elections.