First-Time Voters: The Driving Force of the Upcoming Elections

In the upcoming elections, first-time voters are set to play a pivotal role. Prime Minister Modi has already reached out to them, acknowledging their potential to shape the future of the nation. But what are the issues that drive these young voters?

Meet Anwesha Dasgupta, a 21-year-old Bharatnatyam artiste and BCom student at Shyamaprasad College in Calcutta. Hailing from New Barrackpore, North 24-Parganas, she will be casting her vote in the Dum Dum constituency.

Key Issues

Anwesha believes that the government should increase funding for higher education. “Students are compelled to seek admission in private institutions due to the lack of government colleges or university seats,” she says. This issue, she feels, will significantly influence her vote.

Expectations from the New Government

Anwesha hopes that the new government will ensure citizens have the freedom of speech. “People are afraid to speak on different issues,” she observes. Another pressing concern for her is unemployment. “I have seen my seniors, even after completing their education, failing to secure jobs. The problem of unemployment should be looked into,” she asserts.

What the New Government Shouldn’t Do

Anwesha has grown up witnessing increasing division among people of different religions and castes. She yearns for a government that promotes unity in diversity. “I want to see a government that speaks for unity in diversity,” she states.

As the elections approach, the voices of first-time voters like Anwesha will be crucial in shaping the political landscape. Their concerns and expectations reflect the aspirations of a young, vibrant India ready to step into the future.