Maverick bypoll candidate believes in power of vote

His naive shedding of tears over a paltry five votes in the 2019 elections struck a chord with the masses, turning him into an internet sensation overnight. Jalandhar's election star — the modest Neetu Shutteranwala — who has since tried his luck in countless elections across Punjab and beyond, was back for the Tarn Tarn assembly bypoll on Friday.

Unfazed by his myriad electoral losses, Neetu Shutteranwala, who raked in 464 votes in the Tarn Taran bypoll, chuckled, "Mera 30,000 rupiya, ehna da 30-30 crore rupaiya. Enna leaderan nu main 30,000 naal parhne paiya hoeya. (I've merely borrowed and spent Rs 30,000 for the bypoll and these leaders spent Rs 30-Rs 30 crore. But my Rs 30,000 has weighed heavy on them.)"

In full form and his faith in democracy rock solid as ever, Shutteranwala invoked Ambedkar, spoke of Panjab University, religious brotherhood and the power of the common man's vote.

"The kids of Punjab are being beaten up at universities. But leaders are bothered only about votes. I exhort you, don't vote for any party in 2027. Vote for all Independents. For once, let them understand the power of your vote which can shake the world. It's our democracy. Dr Ambedkar gave us the Constitution. He gave the slogan to educate and agitate. But neither can our kids agitate, nor are they getting educated. This is injustice."

"Political leaders have relegated your kids to do only 'Zindabad' and 'Murdabad', they won't grow like this. Show them the power of your votes in 2027," he added.

For the voters of Tarn Taran, too, he had a message, "People of Tarn Taran, you may have defeated me here. But show me if any of your works are being done. There have been countless incidents today too."

Exhorting everyone to rise above religion and caste, Shutteranwala said this is the only way love can grow.

Crooning his song, "Pizzeyan Vangu Chitta Aajkal Milda Order Te", Shutteranwala, who wore a neon cap bearing the logo "Boss", signed off with the exhortation, "We used to get 35 kg wheat, now it's at 12 kg. It will come down to 2 kg one day. When will you speak up? Loktantar hai, khul ke bolo (It's a democracy, speak up)."