Political foray: In Himachal, young blood ready for grassroots governance
SHIMLA: At a time when the Covid-19 pandemic has rendered thousands of young people jobless, a significant number from Himachal has forayed into grassroots politics with an aim to serve the people better.
In the recently held Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) polls in the hill state, more than 68% of the representatives elected to zila parishads, block development committees, panchayats and urban bodies are below the age of 40 years.
Over 32% of these are in the age group of 21 to 30 years, while 36% are between 31 and 40 years. About 20.3% are in the age group of 41 to 50 years.
The young guns are hopeful of bringing about a positive change in the lives of people in their respective areas. “I have always wanted to serve the society which is why I was earlier preparing for the civil services. But people from my area encouraged me to contest the zila parishad elections and now I will be able to live my dream,” says Bharati Janartha, 32, the newly elected member from Tikkar zila parishad ward in Jubbal and Kotkhai assembly segment.
Kushal Mungta, 32, was elected to the zila parishad from Saraswatinagar ward. “The entry of youngsters into politics in Himachal is a healthy sign of democracy. Young people are energetic, and they can devote more time to the people,” said opined.
Kushal, who was backed by the Congress and won by a margin of 6,500 votes, does not favour elections in Himachal on party symbols. “Though the PRI polls were not held on party symbols this time, but the same is being contemplated for the future. I feel elections on party symbols divide people,” he said.
After being elected zila parishad chairperson in Bilaspur district, Muskan, 21, became the youngest to head the top post. She is pursuing her law studies. Muskan won as an independent candidate and later switched over to the BJP.
Another 21-year-old, Sonika Lata, was elected as pradhan of Brasli gram panchayat in Rohru subdivision. “Though I made it, panchayat is a big responsibility. I will do my best,” she said.
Political analysts believe that the increased participation of youngsters in the PRI elections reflects their sensitivity towards their professional obligations and responsibility. “The hike in age limits of PRI representatives and increase in panchayat budget has begun to attract youths,” said Harish Thakur, head of political science department at Himachal Pradesh University.
Meanwhile, political parties also feel that the participation of young people will strengthen the democratic setup of the state as well as the country.
Shimla (rural) MLA Vikramaditya Singh said, “With this, we can hope for more young faces in the 2022 assembly polls.”