Pune Municipal Corporation Launches Comic Book Featuring Gandhi
The Pune Municipal Corporation has released a unique comic book titled 'My City, My Vote'. This publication aims to educate young citizens about the importance of participating in local body elections. Written by Soham Shah and illustrated by comic artist Chaitanya Govande, the comic uses an engaging narrative to drive home its message.
Gandhi Steps Off the Pedestal to Educate Youth
The story begins with a young Pune resident questioning whether municipal corporation elections truly matter. At this moment, a statue of Mahatma Gandhi comes to life within the comic's pages. Gandhi proceeds to explain how local elections provide direct representation at the grassroots level.
"It is the municipal corporators who decide how the city grows and ensure that the municipality performs all its tasks properly," Gandhi states in the comic. "Growth without responsible, local leadership leads to chaos. Municipal leaders shape how growth is guided."
Addressing Common Youth Concerns About Voting
The comic directly tackles reasons why young people might avoid voting. When the protagonist mentions that most friends don't participate, Gandhi responds pointedly. "Then decisions are made without them. Silence also shapes democracy—just not in your favour," he says.
Another common complaint—that politicians disappear after elections—receives clear explanation. Gandhi notes that locally elected corporators come from the same neighborhoods as voters, making them more accessible than national leaders.
Educational Content About Local Governance
Beyond motivational messaging, the comic provides practical information about Maharashtra's local governance structure:
- It explains the hierarchy from Nagar Panchayats to Municipal Councils to Municipal Corporations
- Specific Pune details: 35.5 lakh voters divided into 41 wards electing 165 corporators
- Most wards require voters to select 4 candidates
- Instructions for checking voter IDs on the PMC website using one's name
Modern Engagement Through Social Media
Artist Chaitanya Govande promoted the comic on Instagram with the caption "Time to step up for local democracy!" His post features panels from the publication, reaching younger audiences through platforms they frequent.
The comic concludes with a contemporary touch—the young citizen asks Gandhi for a selfie before the story ends. This Gen Z moment bridges historical inspiration with modern engagement methods.
Author's Background in Civic Reporting
Soham Shah, the comic's writer, serves as a Correspondent for The Indian Express based in Pune. His journalism background includes fact-checking and data-driven reporting on education and civic issues. Shah's recent work demonstrates a focus on governance, human rights, and investigative pieces related to Pune's development.
The PMC comic represents another effort to make civic education accessible and engaging for Pune's younger population ahead of local elections.
