The 2024 Lok Sabha Election is currently underway in India, divided into five phases for voting. On May 20th 2024, Mumbai will hold its elections. This year, voters face a challenging decision with multiple prominent parties vying for their support, including BJP, Indian National Congress (INC), two factions of Shiv Sena led by Shri Eknath Shinde and Shri Uddhav Thackeray and two factions of NCP led by Shri Sharad Pawar and Shri Ajit Pawar. The abundance of parties and similar symbols has led to confusion among voters.
As the polls open for Election Day on May 20th, 2024, every citizen over the age of 18 will have the opportunity to cast their vote, a right granted to them by the Constitution, defining our nation as a democracy.
In the Mumbai North Central Constituency, two eminent personalities are contesting against each other. Smt. Varsha Gaikwad, the former cabinet minister for Women and Child Development, Government of Maharashtra, represents the INDIA alliance, while Adv. Ujjwal Nikam, a special public prosecutor and the government counsel for the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, represents the NDA alliance.
While both candidates bring their own strengths to the table, the crucial question remains will the people of the Mumbai North Central Constituency exercise their right to vote? To vote or not to vote is a serious question, especially as the election season approaches. Voting is not just a privilege but also a responsibility. Remember, if you don’t cast your vote, you forfeit your right to comment on the political scenario of our nation.
Indeed, if you are uncomfortable voting for any political party, you have the option of NOTA (None of the Above). However, even if NOTA receives the most votes, it holds no electoral value. Nonetheless, the ongoing case in the Supreme Court might shed more light on the significance of NOTA.
Voting is essential as it provides a platform for citizens to uphold the democratic structure. If a majority chooses not to vote, democracy could be threatened, potentially leading to a more elitist form of government.
This year, both the government and the Election Commission have taken steps to encourage voter turnout. Educational institutions, like K C Law College in Churchgate, have been instrumental in raising awareness among young students about the importance of voting. Through their legal aid committee, they have actively encouraged people to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming election.
Finally, I appeal to the people of Mumbai, if you desire change, make the most of this right bestowed upon you. Your vote matters.
