Need to induct youths in politics, says Varun
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Member of Parliament Varun Gandhi on Friday stressed on the need for a change in the existing electoral system. He also added that there was a need to check lavish canvassing.
The MP, while speaking at a programme Youth Conclave 2016 on ‘Ideas for a new India’, also gave examples of other countries and said there was no harm in replicating good systems prevalent elsewhere. The event was organised by Media Nest Society and Citizen’s Forum Lucknow.
“The Norway government opted for a smart way out of the situation. They do not have any limitation on canvassing expenditure but have restrictions on giving television and print advertisements, holding rallies and permits and door-todoor canvassing. Such restrictions are enough to curb the canvassing expenditure,” said Varun.
The BJP leader also stressed upon induction of youths in political parties. Giving the example of a ministry for political development in Jordan, he said there the ministry had launched a survey and interviewed youths, asking them about their mindset and priorities. They also prepared a list of youths, whom they later referred to the parties on the basis of their interests. “After three years Jordan got 28 MPs’ and it’s all because of the ministry. The same should be implemented in our own country,” said Varun.
He also called for an experiment that required reserving seats at pradhan level for youths rather than those from political background; then it could bring a major change in the system.
In his 42-minute long speech, Gandhi also highlighted several burning issues, the country was grappling with one of which included shortage of teachers. “The country has around 24 lakhs post graduate (PG) students. It should be made mandatory for all to teach students atleast for 200 hours annually. It would be a sure shot solution to the problem,” he added.
He also slammed the MPs’ seeking a salary hike. “I felt ashamed when MPs’ worth multi-billion dollars are demanding a salary hike. I personally wrote to Meira Kumari saying that I don’t want a salary hike. I make sure that whatever salary I get, I distribute it among farmers of UP,” he said.