Drug abuse dominated voter concerns during the civic body polls in Batala on Tuesday, with a majority of citizens expressing hope that their elected representatives would work sincerely to eradicate the menace. While civic issues like sanitation, streets, and drainage remained key concerns, voters maintained that development work was the basic responsibility of any elected leader, but curbing drugs required urgent political will.
Voter Sentiments on Drug Abuse
Times of India spoke to voters across age groups, standing patiently in queues amid heavy security arrangements. Many voters expressed disappointment over the limited impact of the government's 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' campaign, stating that drugs were still easily available in their localities.
"Feeling good to vote, but we need a good candidate," said Gurdev Singh after casting his vote. "Sanitation, streets, and drains should be improved, but drugs must be eradicated. The future of our children is in danger," he emphasized.
At one polling booth, sons carried an elderly man to the station on a chair so that he could exercise his right to vote. Narinder Kaur, an elderly voter, echoed similar concerns. "It is good to cast our vote, but drugs should not be available like this. We expect our candidate to set an example and eradicate drugs from our ward. Sanitation is another major issue," she said.
Youth and Development Aspirations
For many voters, the elections were not just about development, but also about a secure future. "I want to vote for a person who will develop the area," said Sarita Kumari, a young voter. "Development and employment opportunities matter to the youth. There should also be a check on drug abuse," she added.
Voters across the board emphasized that while infrastructure improvements are necessary, the drug problem poses a direct threat to the community's well-being, especially the younger generation. The call for political will to combat drug abuse resonated strongly among all age groups, making it the defining issue of the civic polls.
