In a display of civic duty and democratic fervor, former cricket captain Rahul Dravid emerged as an early voter in Bengaluru during the ongoing India general elections. Setting a commendable example, Dravid was spotted queuing up alongside fellow citizens at a polling booth in Dollars Colony to cast his ballot.
Expressing his satisfaction with the electoral process, Dravid emphasized the importance of active participation in shaping the nation’s future. “Voting went smoothly, and the process was very easy. It is important to take our democracy forward, and I request everyone to step out and vote,” remarked Dravid, underscoring the significance of citizen engagement in the electoral process.
Anticipating a surge in voter turnout, particularly among the youth, Dravid highlighted the pivotal role of first-time voters in bolstering democratic representation. “I am expecting a larger voter turnout this time in Bengaluru. There are so many first-time voters as well, and everyone must use their franchise. If young boys and girls show up and cast their vote, it would be great,” he asserted, echoing a sentiment of empowerment through civic participation.
Joining Dravid in exercising their franchise were other prominent personalities, including former Indian cricket stalwart Anil Kumble and Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy. Kumble, accompanied by his wife Chethana Ramatheertha, cast their votes early in the morning, while Narayana Murthy and his wife Sudha Murthy urged Bengaluru voters to actively participate in the electoral process to enhance the city’s polling percentage.
Addressing the media, Sudha Murthy emphasized the significance of urban voter turnout and encouraged youngsters to seize the opportunity to choose their leaders. “I want to tell everyone – don’t sit at home, come out and vote, choose your leader,” she urged, highlighting the pivotal role of urban voters in shaping electoral outcomes.
The ongoing Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka witness 14 seats up for grabs in the second phase, with the remaining 14 slated for polling on May 7. Notable constituencies include Bangalore Rural, Bangalore North, Bangalore Central, Bangalore South, Mandya, and Mysore. The outcome of these elections will determine the political destiny of key figures such as BJP leader Tejasvi Surya, former chief minister HD Kumaraswamy, and Congress stalwart DK Suresh.
As the electoral process unfolds, Bengaluru stands poised to make its mark on India’s democratic landscape, with citizens like Rahul Dravid leading the charge for active civic participation.