"More Than a Right: Why Voting is Your Responsibility"

 As a writer, I believe that voting is not just a right but also a responsibility for every citizen who wants to see change. Before claiming the right to vote, we must fulfill our responsibility. Both need to go hand in hand; we cannot ignore either. The system of government is similar to our personal lives. If you want good food at home, you need to step out, work, and earn money to bring groceries. Only then can you enjoy a good meal. The government and voting work the same way—you need to step out and cast your vote to have the government you want. It’s just like going shopping; you buy clothes that fit you, and only after trying them on do you know if they suit you. Similarly, voting is about making a choice. Whether the government is good or bad is something we can discuss later.

Some people want everything for free, sitting comfortably at home. They expect the government to do everything for them, fulfill their every wish, but they don’t want to step out and vote. Have you ever heard of anyone getting everything without lifting a finger? I haven’t. A wise and hardworking person knows that they must earn their living. The same goes for voting—it’s our right, but also our responsibility. If you want something, you need to give something in return. You need to show that you care by voting.

Your vote is your identity. Not casting your vote means you haven’t done your duty as a citizen. Just like you work hard to earn food for your home, you need to step out and vote for the government you want. Lying around won’t earn you respect, and it won’t bring the changes you desire. Voting is your weapon, given to you before any battle begins. How the battle goes is up to you—your vote decides the direction. Whether you win or lose the battle is secondary, but at least you’ll know you tried.

The Impact of Voting on Real Lives

In many countries, the power of voting has brought huge changes. Take the example of South Africa during the apartheid era. Voting was restricted to a specific group, and for years, millions of people were denied their right to have a say in how they were governed. But when Nelson Mandela led the fight for freedom and equality, the first multiracial election took place in 1994. This was a moment where people's votes changed the history of a nation. Those who had never had a voice before finally used their right, and South Africa saw the beginning of a new era—an end to decades of racial segregation. This shows how powerful voting can be when people come together for a common cause.

Another example is the United States, where in 2008, the election of President Barack Obama, the first African American president, was historic. His victory was seen as a reflection of hope and change, particularly because a significant number of young and minority voters participated in that election. People wanted change, and by voting, they made it happen. Issues such as healthcare reform, economic recovery, and environmental policies became a priority during his presidency. All of this was possible because people exercised their right to vote.

In more recent times, countries like New Zealand have seen the power of voting to advance progressive policies. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s leadership has been praised worldwide for handling crises, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The strong voter turnout ensured that her policies, focusing on mental health, child poverty, and climate change, could be put into action. Again, this was only possible because people believed in their power to vote.

Personal Choices and Voting Responsibilities

Just like planting seeds in a field, we don’t always know if the seeds will give a good crop, but we still plant them. In the same way, voting might not always give us the perfect government, but that doesn’t mean we stop trying. You can’t give up and sit back for a whole year just because one crop failed. You have to prepare for the next harvest. In the same way, you must vote, even if you were disappointed before. Voting is a way of working towards a better future, like earning a meal by working. If you don’t work, you won’t have the right to eat, and if you don’t vote, you lose the right to complain. You don’t get to make demands if you haven’t participated in the process.

Imagine if your house has no electricity while the houses next door are well-lit. Wouldn't you want the same for your home? The same applies to the country. When we see advancements elsewhere, we naturally desire those changes for ourselves too. Whether it’s better education, cleaner streets, or safer neighbourhoods, these are things we want for our families. But change only happens when we get involved.

In India, the literacy rate and education system have seen improvements over the years, in part because of voter participation. People voted for policies that would bring about reforms in education. In places like Kerala, high voter turnout has led to better health and education outcomes compared to other states. These improvements didn't happen by chance—they were driven by responsible citizens casting their votes.

The Power of Individual Votes

Your vote is your voice, just like a family card identifies you as a member of a household. If you don’t vote, how will the government know you exist? How will they understand your needs? Voting is like choosing the right member of your household to handle important responsibilities. If you want your country to develop, you need to choose leaders who can fulfil your demands. You cannot sit idly by, expecting someone else to do it for you.

Just because one seed failed doesn’t mean they all will. You need to pick up your voting weapon and take control of the battle. Even if you lose this time, at least you will have learned what works and what doesn’t, and you can prepare for next time. Sitting at home won’t help you understand which seeds are bad. You only find out by trying. You must vote to make your voice heard. Staying inactive will not help you or the nation progress.

Every citizen wants progress in their country, just as they want improvements in their homes. When you see your neighbour building a bigger house with better rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms, don’t you also wish for the same in your own home? The country works the same way. When we see other countries advancing in technology and living standards, we naturally want the same for our country. But for that, you need to take action. You need to choose the right leader for your country.

So, get up and vote. Don’t sit at home and let others decide your future. Your vote is your identity, like a family card. It shows that you are part of the family, a responsible citizen of this nation. By voting, you help shape the future.