Will demonetisation have an impact on upcoming elections?

A Correspondent

Jalandhar, January 21

In the past two months, demonetisation had serious effects on the lives of the common people. While enough discussions were made about the significance and implications of the decision, it becomes important to see the move in the context of elections. Some young citizens of Jalandhar have expressed their views about the impact of demonetisation on the upcoming Assembly elections:

YouthSpeak

Demonetisation was a strong step to curb black money. It will leave a considerable and beneficial impact on BJP- Akali alliance in the upcoming Punjab elections. Result is unpredictable and depends on the efforts of party workers as to how they would convince people in their favour. — Abhijeet Singh Thakur, student

Election is nearly equal to a celebration in Punjab, when we come across news of liquor distribution and voter freebies, but I don’t think that demonetisation will have a serious impact. I think BJP has major aims in UP than in Punjab. It will be difficult for this alliance to present an acceptable face for Punjab. — Jinson George, army aspirant

Electoral funding in India is largely opaque and most parties claim that they have received the funds from unknown sources. India is amongst those few countries which allow political parties to receive anonymous donations. Despite stringent rules, cash is commonly used to lure voters. I believe the note ban may affect our politicians’ policy of ‘note for vote’. — Prince Vij, working professional

Taking such a bold move just before elections was surprising. It was a great decision to get hold on corruption, which, I feel, people seem to have misunderstood. This can cause BJP and Akalis too, some trouble in the upcoming elections. The move has made the situation sensitive and unpredictable. — Apoorva Kumar, aspiring writer