Milind Deora, MP, South Mumbai
Times are changing. We are increasingly looking at a young and rational India that can protest against issues affecting its progress. Today, youngsters are aware of their rights and their approach is pragmatic and refreshing. It is this transformation that brings a ray of hope to the political landscape of the country. In order to channelise this energy, I have taken the initiative to launch @UthSpeak, an apolitical social media handle on Twitter for the youth to voice their opinions on. This platform neither reflects my personal views or party biases, it is completely neutral. I strongly believe the youth of this country do not just need to be heard, they have a right to be heard.
The idea is to discuss burning issues affecting the country, dispassionately and objectively one issue at a time, every month. More importantly it attempts to connect the youth with India’s decision-makers as the suggestions tabled on the handle will culminate in active interactions between Uthspeak and the authorities concerned. We will also have live Twitter chats to deepen this exchange further. The topic under discussion this month is ‘A Direct Mayor for Mumbai’. All those who agree with this proposal and wish to participate in the campaign should definitely sign the online petition on www.change.org/dmda.
My plea to young citizens and friends, who prefer to remain cynical and disengaged, is please do take this opportunity to participate and contribute to the new and emerging wave of responsible transformation. You can actually partner with the government to bring about systemic change as opposed to resorting to unconstitutional means or worse still remaining apathetic. I find that this element of cynicism that has crept into our psyche is used as an excuse to remain ignorant and cut off. Engaging with the system is no longer an option to be considered but an obligation and a duty. If we truly want to see this country change from within, we must seize the moment now.
