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Aren't cricketers and Bollywood stars setting a bad example by skipping elections?

Written By Vishal Manve | Updated: Apr 24, 2014, 03:41 PM IST

The stage is set for India's biggest political battle as the sixth phase of polling begins on Thursday.

Political bigwigs have upped the campaings and are seen on various platforms such as television, radio, newspapers and websites seeking votes. But, Bollywood and Cricket are two industries that will give a major miss to voting this year. 

While due to ongoing IPL matches, many cricketers will miss the elections, Bollywood's extravagant award show IIFA will cause many stars to skip the voting process altogether. 

Over 814 million people will be eligible to vote in the 2014 elections, making it the biggest Lok Sabha polls -- and the biggest democratic parliamentary elections anywhere in the world.
Bollywood and cricket are the biggest influencers for youth and also the highest revenue generating industries in India. Hence, it is important that these so called 'icons' participate in the electoral process. 

Many IPL players will miss out from participating in the elections as the first part of their on-going tournament has been shifted to United Arab Emirates. Similarly, IIFA will take place at Tampa Bay in United states and many stars are participating in numerous events. 

Indian team's captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni will not be able to vote because Ranchi goes to polls on April 24.

The reason being his team Chennai Super Kings clashing with Delhi Daredevils. 

“There is no provision for online voting in India,” said H. S. Brahma, one of the two Election Commissioners (the other being Dr. Nasim Zaidi) from New Delhi while explaining absence of online voting for stars to a news daily. 

Not only these stars but also their team owners such as Shah Rukh Khan, Priety Zinta, Shilpa Shetty may miss the elections due to ongoing tournaments. 

Virat Kohli was a part of awareness campaign for Delhi elections in 2013 and has been anointed as ambassador for elections to target new voters entering the election fray. 

But, due to IPL, even Virat may not be able to exercise the voting franchise. 

In terms of Bollywood, according to IIFA organisers, dates for the festival had been decided much in advance. Hence many stars are flying out of the country to perform at USA.  

Bollywood stars have been potraying roles of politicians, common man and activists in movies. Even in real life, they participate in candle-light vigil to show solidarity against crimes. So wouldn't elections be the best way to bring reel to real life? 

While stars such as Salman Khan (his last film was Jai Ho which spoke about corruption), Deepika Padukone (She was born at Copenhagen), Sonakshi Sinha (Shatrugan Sinha is contesting in elections), Vivek Oberoi (His mother-in-law Nandita Alva is contesting elections) and Priyanka Chopra will not be voting due to work commitments, many others have promised to vote. 

This list includes Ranbir Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor, Aamir Khan (Election commission's ambassador) and veteran Amitabh Bachchan. 

Some of Bollywood's prominent stars such as Nagma, Kirron Kher, Gul Panag and Javed Jafferi are contesting elections. It is a matter of utmost disgrace that our cricketing icons and stars will not be voting in the democratic process as citizens of India.

However, there were those who did step out to vote and set precedent to the city that has so far witnessed sluggish polling.

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Setting a bad example by taking elections for granted, these stars should not complain if there is any negative event that occurs after the new government comes in place. Because, if you don't take one day out for your country, then even the right to complain about the system is automatically taken away. 

Youngsters should definitely vote and choose a government that they want to see at the helm of affairs. While they should definitely reassess their role-models who defy their duties to vote. In any democratic setup, every citizen has to vote. 

In countries like Australia, not participating in elections and voting can land you in legal trouble. But the rules are much lenient in India and hence people take advantage. 

Election Commission and the government have brought in NOTA (None of the above) option for individuals who prefer to reject all their candidates on any grounds. If this does not bring you the ballot office, we are not sure what will! 

Its your right to vote! To be participative and select the course of future for India. Sparing a day for your country is important and should be termed as a duty to be fulfilled. 

So, go ahead and be your own icon! Vote for a better India.