In India, 68.8% of the population lives in rural areas, while the remaining 31.2% reside in urban areas. One major issue with living in rural areas is that many people are confined to their own spheres, often unaware of national events and news. Although this lack of awareness is not exclusive to rural areas, a higher percentage of people in these regions tend to be uninformed. Women, in particular, are often the least informed.
Reports suggest that many villagers are unaware of the names of candidates contesting elections. When asked how they decide whom to vote for, they often mention voting for political parties or their leaders. This highlights the significant influence political parties have on elections. In an ideal democracy, voters should be well-informed about the candidates, including their education, experience, criminal records, and more. However, many voters across the country overlook these details and vote solely based on the political party, which can lead to a polarized and unstable democracy.
The root cause of this issue is the lack of awareness among voters regarding the ethical and moral responsibilities of a voter and the importance of choosing candidates based on their qualifications. While the Election Commission of India has done a commendable job in conducting elections and raising awareness, there is a lack of emphasis on educating voters about how to select the right candidates. It is important to remember that candidates represent the people in their constituency, not just a political party.
Debates before elections often focus on the actions or inactions of the ruling party, with little to no discussion about the individual candidates and their merits. It is crucial to shift the focus towards evaluating candidates based on their abilities and qualifications, rather than just their party affiliation.
In conclusion, if voters start choosing candidates based on their qualifications and merits, it will significantly benefit the nation and strengthen democracy.