Rajkot: A mix of apathy, determination and frustration marked the civic body elections in Rajkot on Sunday, as sluggish voter turnout through the first half contrasted sharply with the resolve shown by sections of the electorate who braved multiple hurdles to cast their ballots.Polling stations witnessed early morning queues of senior citizens, local political figures, bureaucrats and a few prominent faces, but the momentum failed to build as the day progressed. The noticeable absence of younger voters stood out, raising concerns over urban voter disengagement.For many who did step out, the experience was far from smooth. Across several polling centres, basic infrastructure for elderly and differently-abled voters was found lacking. The absence of wheelchairs and access ramps forced senior citizens to depend on others for assistance. In some cases, police personnel had to physically carry voters up staircases to enable them to vote.Eighty-year-old Amrutlal Hansoliya’s determination summed up the spirit of many elderly voters. Despite mobility issues, he arrived at a Raiya Road school booth, only to find no wheelchair or ramp available. Struggling to climb the steps, he was eventually helped inside by police personnel. Similar scenes played out at multiple booths across the city.Visually impaired voters also faced difficulties, with the absence of Braille numbering on electronic voting machines (EVMs) this time. At a polling station set up in a blind school, several elderly women voters had to rely on companions to cast their votes. The mandatory declaration process for companions, meant to ensure secrecy of voting, further slowed down the process.Voters also expressed frustration over logistical issues. The ban on mobile phones inside polling booths, combined with the lack of storage facilities outside, led to arguments between voters and polling staff. Many individuals, especially those heading to work without companions, chose to leave without voting rather than risk losing their phones.Confusion over polling stations added to the chaos. With voter slips not distributed and some booths relocated, several voters found their names missing at designated centres and were redirected elsewhere, discouraging participation.Yet, amid the challenges, stories of civic commitment stood out. Abdul Patel, 79, who was recently displaced after a demolition drive in Jangleshwar, made it a point to vote. “I have never missed casting my vote in any election,” he said, after standing in line despite his circumstances.In another display of dedication, two brides-to-be prioritised voting on their wedding day. Shanur Gadhvara from Morbi district arrived at her polling booth in full bridal attire before her nikah, while Denisha Gajera from Junagadh district cast her vote before heading to her wedding. “Voting is a duty of a citizen,” Denisha said, hoping to inspire others.
