Politics and I

When I watched the politicians speaking on the stage and addressing the people, I was happy to hear the promises they did. I thought that now the women would be safe to walk on the streets anytime they want. I was happy that there will be no thefts or nuisance in my area. I was delighted knowing that there would no longer be tension in my house over paying my fees as I have heard that they would lower the fees in private institutions. My grandfather’s pension use to come late every month. And even for that he waited for long hours in those Government offices. I’m glad he would now get it on time. My maid takes her child with her when she goes for work. The child is very fond of studying but cannot study because of poverty. I have also heard the promises that every poor child would now get free education. I was pleased to know that there would be plentiful job opportunities for all those who seek for a job. The corruption in the system will no longer exist. I was ecstatic to know that I would enjoy a better life in terms of education, freedom, lifestyle and income.

Finally, came the day of voting. But I did not go to vote. I didn't vote for any party. And after sometime I came to know that the party I was keen on has won the elections and will now form the Government. I was on cloud nine as to all what I have heard will now come true. Months passed by, but I didn't found any change. The women safety instead of getting better got worse. Crime rate multiplied rapidly. The corruption which was to be erased, hit the highest point. The poor child, who desired to study, died of hunger instead. In spite of new job opportunities the people lost their existing jobs.

I kept quiet for long but then it was high time. There was no way I would have now stopped what was happening around me but all I could do is stand against it. Fight for what was right and make others do it too. I stood for Nirbhaya, and got myself arrested for brawling on the streets of the capital but still fought for her justice. I stood against the corrupted Government. I fueled the anti corruption movement, whether on the grounds of Ramleela Maidan or on Facebook, Twitter, etc. I struggled for the money which was looted and the frauds done to me. In between all these protests I always blamed myself. If I would have given my vote then maybe all this through which I’m going now, might not have taken place. But from now, I pledge to become the change I want to see in my nation. I will not sit and watch the drama; I will be the part of it. I pledge to vote this time. After all I’m the part of the ‘youngest democracy of the world’.

I’m the youth of India.