Following the seven-phase General Elections, citizens across the nation are eagerly anticipating the results within 48 hours. During this period, every political party released its manifesto and made several significant promises. AajTak.in tapped into the pulse of its audience to discover which issues mattered most to them—issues that deserved a spotlight in these manifestos. Thousands participated in this initiative, crafting their own manifestos. Rooted in the insights from these reader-generated manifestos, the fight against corruption emerged as the pivotal electoral issue. A sweeping majority incorporated the promise to imprison corrupt officials into their personal pledges.
Tightening the Noose on Corruption
According to the outcomes of AajTak.in's online manifesto, 9% of participants gave top priority to incarcerating the corrupt. The nation clamors for rigorous action against corruption. Additionally, 8% believe the country needs better roads to ease travel and commute times, directly benefiting the economy and business transactions.
Source: aajtak
When it comes to justice in various matters, 7% envisage a system where justice is swift and accessible. Education also takes center stage—another 7% demand affordable schooling, as escalating fees have left many distressed, seeking a balance between high-quality and cost-effective education.
Employment and Crime Control at the Forefront
The demand for jobs and the generation of employment opportunities stand as major issues. 7% of AajTak.in's assembly prioritize job creation in its election manifesto, while the public also desires a significant reduction in criminal activities. According to the platform's insights, 6% prioritize crime control as a key issue needing urgent attention.
The Public Calls for 'One Nation, One Election'
Citizens express frustration over the repetitive cycles of state and national elections, leading to disruptions in governmental development work. 6% support the concept of 'One Nation, One Election' to conserve resources and avoid developmental delays. The current central government has initiated preparations for this system, establishing a committee under former President Ram Nath Kovind to explore its implementation.
In terms of healthcare, the burden of medical expenses in the event of illness affects family finances significantly. With the high cost of treatments, 6% in the public's election manifesto advocate for more affordable healthcare at state and national levels. Furthermore, 5% call for strict measures against those hoarding black money—a major issue since the 2014 General Elections. Another 5% wish to see India transition into a Hindu nation.
The Masses Seek Farmer Debt Forgiveness
The dire economic conditions of farmers also cast a substantial issue, with 4% in favor of debt waiver for farmers to enrich the lives of the nation's cultivators and enhance their incomes. A further 3% believe in the implementation of a uniform civil code—a prominent election promise of the ruling BJP party.
With constant debates around the reservation system, 3% of those contributing to AajTak.in's manifestos advocate for the abolition of caste-based reservations, reflecting its significance in this election's discourse. Lastly, the spike in living costs, causing household budgets to falter, is a source of concern for another 3% seeking to clamp down on inflation, hoping for some respite.
