No-Vote Option

I was in conversation with one of my pals and we were discussing about how inflation has gone up and how people are reeling under it. Subsequently we then followed up with a talk on whom to vote this time next year when the new government will be formed. I was thinking to myself as to who should I vote next year. I try and read articles here and there often to answer this internal turmoil. I’m a responsible citizen (I know) or atleast I want my value to be proved to myself. I wonder whether the government in power is really effective or no. I tried to look back at its last 4 years in power and understood that in the penultimate year, the FM gave away all the wealth that he acquired for his government in the form of waivers, tax reductions, favors, etc. all in the name of “inclusive budget”. I then tried to re-collect similar happenings of the previous government too. Unfortunately I was not able to remember anything as I really did not pay attention then. Still my question is not answered as yet, “who should I vote for?”.

While having a chat with this pal we were also discussing about how the OBC quota verdict by the SC could be challenged by the dumb HRD minister of India. Then suddenly we changed our topic and started talking of IIMs and there by the competitive exams to get in. While discussing we spoke about the multiple choice questions that we get. And the various types of options. We spoke about the “none of the above” option also. Then we started drawing an analogy of having this option during voting too. Hmm, deep thought should be given to it, I thought to myself. We laughed it off. But, I kept thinking about the implications that it would have. On what basis will people choose the option and if they do then what does it mean. May be it means that this voter does not have the confidence to pick any one from the options available or may be he does not have the confidence in any of the previous governments. So in this case how will this “none of the above” option make this voter more responsible and what will happen if this “none of the above” wins the election. May be then we should have governments which do not join hands with friends for support (as they have been doing previously) but to go in a government which has foes together who will work united for the progress of the country. (Man..!!! I’m vicious..!) Or may be a situation where there is no opposition and all work unanimously for the country. I was thinking to myself, “Am I changing the face of democracy or what?” I just shrugged the thought off.

The heart of the whole matter is that I want to be a responsible citizen who wants an able government who could deliver something better than their predecessors. Who would let me enjoy the fruits of my effort in my working and social life, where there is mental peace that the government is not cheating me secretly in the name of “inclusive budget”.

FIN.