In the recent Baramati constituency elections spanning various areas including Khadakwasla and Dhayari, a commendable display of efficient management was witnessed. Beyond the government-appointed volunteers and officials, a notable contribution came from the local women, predominantly homemakers and teachers, who enthusiastically participated in the election process.
Women in Action
These women were not mere spectators but active participants, duly trained and entrusted with significant responsibilities as voting representatives. One of their primary tasks involved cross-verifying the discrepancies between the voter lists provided to them and the official government records. Additionally, they meticulously verified voters’ identities, paying close attention to facial features for accurate identification. In recognition of their services, they were duly compensated financially.
Community Mobilization
The mobilization of these women was facilitated through various channels, including social groups dedicated to women’s empowerment and community development. For instance, Manjusha Sagare, a homemaker from Dhayari, was approached through the ‘Krantijyot Pratishthan’ social group, led by Rupali Chakankar, a prominent figure in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Such initiatives not only provided women with opportunities for engagement but also fostered a sense of community involvement.
Support and Facilities
The volunteers were provided with essential support and facilities to ensure their comfort and efficiency during duty hours. From tea and breakfast to lunch and ample drinking water, every effort was made to sustain them through the long hours of election proceedings. Sagare lauded the transparent process, highlighting measures such as the visible handling of ballot machines and vote sealing to uphold credibility.
Insights from the Field
Shilpa Yadav, an active volunteer of Krantijyot Pratishthan, emphasized the need for increased participation, particularly among the youth. Despite concerted efforts from election representatives, the turnout of young voters remained disappointingly low. Yadav’s sentiments were echoed by Vaishali Kharche, a school teacher and resident of Dhayari, who noted the higher presence of senior citizens compared to the youth at the polling stations.
Challenges and Triumphs
Anjali Loharkar, another homemaker from Dhayari, shared her experience of assisting voters in obtaining their voting slips at a booth. Despite the challenges posed by a lower voter turnout, estimated at around 55%, Loharkar found inspiration in the resilience of the few disabled individuals who made the effort to cast their votes. Such instances served as a poignant reminder of the importance of civic duty and participation in the electoral process.
