‘Today is not a holiday’: First-time voters take to streets, urge Hyderabad to vote

Hyderabad: In an inspiring display of civic responsibility, a group of enthusiastic youngsters and first-time voters took to the streets in Hyderabad on Thursday with placards, encouraging every passerby to exercise their right to vote.

They positioned themselves at the Narayanguda X Roads on the day of voting, with the aim to address the historic low polling percentages in the city.

The group, who said they are not affiliated with any social service organisation, comprises friends who have been together since their schooldays. They said their efforts are solely driven by a sense of civic responsibility.

“We are around 6-7 people and have been roaming around in colonies and other places to create awareness. Every single vote matters and we should all vote,” said Neha Chejara, one of the members.

Armed with placards featuring encouraging slogans such as ‘Today is not a holiday, but a day of responsibility,’ ‘Think twice, vote wise,’ and ‘I voted. Did you?’ among others, the group engaged with the community by walking past parked vehicles at the signal. They exchanged smiles, waved, and gave thumbs up to individuals displaying their inked nails—a symbol of having cast their votes.

Inspiring future voters

The group’s efforts were not limited to their peers, as even children actively joined them in their awareness campaign. Nishitha, 15, expressed her participation, saying, “I am here because everyone must vote. I can’t vote yet, but I can ask others to vote to secure my future.”

The impact of their initiative reached beyond the immediate group, with passersby taking notice and some even approaching to volunteer and offer assistance, ensuring the campaigners could take a brief break.

First-time voters: Excited to become responsible

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on social media, called upon the people of Telangana to celebrate the festival of democracy. “I call upon my sisters and brothers of Telangana to vote in record numbers and strengthen the festival of democracy. I particularly urge young and first-time voters to exercise their franchise,” said Modi.

Initial reports from various districts suggested a good turnout, especially among the first-time voters who expressed a mix of excitement, responsibility, and eagerness. Several took to social media to share photos and videos of their experience, considering it an essential civic duty and an opportunity to have a say in the democratic process.

Results on December 3

The results of the Telangana elections, alongside Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Mizoram where voting occurred between November 7 and November 25, will be announced on December 3. Women voters have notably outnumbered male voters in Telangana in this Assembly election, signifying a broader and more inclusive participation in the democratic process.