Elders keep democracy alive in Ludhiana district as youth migrate abroad

The absence of younger generation during the zila parishad and panchayat samiti elections was striking. Since many youngsters have migrated abroad in search of livelihood, those here prefer to remain away from the polling booths. In their place, it was the elders wrapped in shawls and carrying decades of memories of democracy, who lined up patiently to cast their vote. For them, the ballot is not just a choice, but a ritual of belonging, a way to keep their voice alive even as their children and grandchildren watch from distant shores.

“I have voted in every election since the 1970s,” said 72-year-old Gurcharan Singh, adjusting his turban as he waited outside the booth at Jarg village. Although my sons have moved abroad, but I do not forget my responsibility and cast my vote in every election, be it zila parishad or legislative assembly,” he said.

“I was the first one to arrive at the polling booth to cast my vote and I am proud of myself,” said Bharpoor Singh, a 74-year-old from Mandiani village. “What if the younger lot has moved away, we cannot move away from our responsibility and I make sure to cast my vote in every election,” adds he.

Across the courtyard at Rauni village, 80-year-old Satwant Kaur echoed similar sentiments. “My children moved to Canada 12 years back. They call and ask about every election and it is we, the elders, who are keeping the voice of the people strong by voting in every election,” she said.

Baldev Singh, a retired schoolteacher from Baraich village, added that the young generation had moved out of the villages, some to cities and some abroad and these days only elderly live in the villages. “We are old, but we are not shunning away from our responsibility. Be it be any season or day; I always cast my vote. It is the responsibility of every citizen and this is what I taught to my students and also practising myself,” he said.

The generational divide is stark. While elders continue to do their duty, youngsters have migrated abroad or moved to cities.