People of India, often bemoan the fact that lumpen elements are dominating the political process in the Country and that there is an unholy nexus between the Politicians and Criminals, which affect the quality of life in the Country. They forget that they posses the most potent weapon-the Vote-in their hands to remedy these evils. Forthcoming Elections give them a Godsend opportunity to test the efficacy of this weapon.

The Right to elect a Government of their choice is the basic Human Right in a Democracy. This is enshrined in Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948). Founding Fathers of the Indian Republic have included this in the Constitution of India and have also created an independent Central Election Commission to oversee free and fair polls. Since 1952, our Elections have been by and large fair and free. Our problem is not with the Election Process but with the quality of those elected. This can be remedied and improved if the Voters keep in mind the following simple principles.

By and large, the intelligentsia and the middle classes have not been exercising their right to vote. Since the first to cross the post wins the elections, the total number of votes polled is an important factor in determining who gets elected. If more votes are polled, there are better chances of the right candidate getting elected. Thus, the basic responsibility of all Citizens is to cast their votes.

Vote is a precious possession in a Democracy. It has to be cast with great deal of thought and deliberation. The voter should consider the background, character and antecedents of every candidate and evaluate the promises from the feasibility point. He should not be swayed by considerations of Religion, caste, community etc. The litmus test should be whether the candidate will be elected to the parliament and be in a position to implement his promises. Since our Democracy operates on Party System, vote should not be wasted on unattached and on small parties. In Indian conditions such votes only add to instability.

Every Citizen has a duty to ensure that the polls are conducted in a Free and Fair atmosphere. This is not the job of Government officials alone. Everyone knows the Rules of the game and what is permitted or not. Citizens should join together in their own localities and ensure that no one violates the Code of Conduct or indulge in activities that mar Free and Fair electoral process.

It is a truism that People get the Representatives they will. If we are keen on having a good government, the time to act is now. Every Voter should realise his responsibility towards this great Democracy and exercise his Vote without fear or favour.

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