Rajinder Nagar By-Election 2022: First-Timers Say They Voted for Development, Change in Society

New Delhi, June 23: Pumped with zeal and excitement, first-time voters of Rajinder Nagar assembly constituency in Delhi exercised their franchise on Thursday to "bring a change" in society and elect a leader to address local issues. Many said it instilled a "sense of responsibility" in them towards the country.

Mishthi Mehra (18) of New Rajinder Nagar voted for the first time. "I was very exited ever since the bypoll was announced as it was an opportunity for me to participate in the festival of democracy. I voted for development of my area as there are a number of issues that are to be taken care of, including the water supply," Mehra told PTI. By-Elections 2022: Moderate to Brisk Turnout in Bypolls for 3 Lok Sabha, 7 Assembly Seats; Cop Stabbed in Tripura.

Voting for the bypoll to the Rajinder Nagar assembly seat in Delhi began on Thursday at 7 am and continued till 6 pm. The Rajinder Nagar seat fell vacant after Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Raghav Chadha was elected to Rajya Sabha recently.

According to the Election Commission, the number of voters in the age bracket of 18-19 years in the Rajinder Nagar assembly constituency is 1,899.

"I was excited and nervous at the same time. It feels like a responsibility. I researched about the candidates and studied about their views. It feels as if we have finally become responsible citizens of the country," Amit Gupta (18) said after casting his vote in Naraina.

Another first-timer, 19-year-old Vanya Vohra said it was an experience that instilled a sense of responsibility towards the society. "It is empowering to vote. I was super-excited as I have finally contributed to the society as a responsible citizen. I always wanted to vote as it makes you feel grown-up. I want the next elected leader to resolve the water supply issue here," Vohra said.

Vikram Kapoor, 19, said he used his right to vote to chose a suitable candidate for the area who would work for its development.

"It was a completely different type of experience for me. It makes me feel responsible in a true sense. I have voted to bring a change in the society. I voted for the candidate who would work on the ground and listen to our problems," Kapoor, a resident of Old Rajinder Nagar, said.

The Rajinder Nagar bypoll is largely being seen as a battle between a confident AAP and a spirited BJP. AAP's Durgesh Pathak is likely to have a close contest with BJP's Rajesh Bhatia, who had also been a councillor from the area. The Congress has fielded former councillor Prem Lata.

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