Fest for first-timers

Divya Sharma

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, May 19

First-time voters were thrilled after casting their votes on Sunday. Distribution of certificates of appreciation by the administration added to their elation. Most of them said the feeling of having a say in the democracy made them feel special. They are hopeful that election of right candidates will result in the nation’s development.

One of them Manmeet Kaur said, “I want government that assures the overall development. There is a need to revamp our education system. The nation needs leaders who focus on women’s welfare.”

Siblings Shivam Kapoor and Kanish Kapoor were so excited to experience the electoral process that they decided to come together instead of coming with their parents later in the day. They also shared their memories of visiting polling station as kids. “Both of us have voted for development. Appreciation certificate is a great initiative” Kanish said.

Chirag Gupta, another first-time voter was so enthusiastic that he reached his polling station as early as 7 am. Some of them took help of news platform to take an informed decision as they participated in the festival of democracy. Hardik Chauhan, another first-timer, said, “I analysed political discussions between my father and grandfather, observed discussions on multiple news platforms to decide my ideal candidate. I want the country to progress.”

A student, Aastha Sharma, came from Jalandhar to cast vote. First-timer Sakshi Bhatia, accompanied by her mother Neetu Bhatia, said, “The nation should prosper.”