FOR many first-time voters in Arunachal Pradesh voting is not just a right but a responsibility also for building a strong base for a vibrant democracy. First-time voters in Arunachal Pradesh constitute 46,144 of the total 8,82,816 electorate. Voting for the two Lok Sabha constituencies and the 60-member Arunachal Pradesh Assembly will be held simultaneously on April 19. Eighteen-year-old Millo Sunyo who will vote for the first time said: “Voting is not just a right but a responsibility of all eligible voters to exercise their adult franchise for building a strong base for a vibrant democracy”. She says elections should be free of money culture, and freebies like distribution of petrol, diesel, liquor, edibles, etc. Sunya, who hails from Ziro-Hapoli Assembly constituency, said people, especially new voters, should turn out in good numbers as it is essential for a healthy democratic process.

 

“Many a time, we criticise the Government but skip participating in the voting process,” said 23-year-old Mingo Ete, who hails from Aalo in West Siang district, and will exercise his franchise for the first time. Ete says as a first-time voter, he would like his representatives in the Assembly and parliament to be accessible, accountable and transparent in their actions, keeping constituents informed about progress and addressing their concerns. He also expects his representatives to uphold ethical standards and respect democracy. “Voters should choose a candidate who demonstrates a commitment to these responsibilities and can effectively address local needs,” he said.

 

Ete added that capable and honest people should be voted and corrupt politicians should be shown the door. “We must choose the right leader who has the potential to bring changes in our society,” he said, adding that as educated voters we must not allow ‘money culture’ to influence voters. “As a voter, I know the value of a vote and my vote should count”, Ete said. “I would vote for a capable and honest person, who will work to bring in developmental changes,” he said. “I would vote for a capable and honest person, who will work to bring in developmental changes,” he said. Eighteen-year-old Gedo Kato, who will vote for the first time in the Assembly and parliamentary polls from Liromoba constituency, said, “I am not interested in politics.”