New Delhi: At the venerable age of 94, Raj Sud has been an active participant in nearly every electoral contest since India’s independence, witnessing the vibrant evolution of this now most populous democracy across its 76-year journey.

In India’s upcoming six-week national election, the largest democratic exercise globally, nearly 970 million individuals are poised to cast their votes starting Friday. Sud, a seasoned homemaker, has a distinct preference for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party, which the polls predict will clinch a third consecutive term.

“Modi is a leader I deeply admire. His commitment to honesty and his vision for a resplendent nation resonate with me,” stated Sud. Under Modi’s leadership, the country has seen significant economic strides, yet his critics argue that his tenure has been marked by erosion of democratic principles and marginalization of minorities.

Financial advisor Dhiren Singh, 58, points to political parties’ attempts to splinter the electorate along various lines, warning of a “sophisticated effort to polarize them based on numerous factors.”

For India’s 200 million youth voters, concerns pivot around different priorities. As per the Center for Monitoring Indian Economy, the joblessness rate stood above 7% in March.

“Securing stable employment is a priority, and I plan to scrutinize each party’s proposals on this front before deciding my vote,” remarked Manya Sachdev, a 22-year-old student and first-time voter.

Another newcomer to the polls, Ankita Jasra, expressed that the allure of studying abroad outshines local prospects. “The talent and skills nurtured in India are often being exported elsewhere.”

Urban voters in New Delhi underscore the pressing need to address corruption, governance gaps, and inflation, issues inadequately tackled by a fractured opposition riddled with internal discord and high-profile arrests.

Ajay Jasra, a 56-year-old service professional, describes the opposition as “completely immobilized” and failing to fulfill its expected role. Others, like 89-year-old retired journalist Niranjan Kapasi, criticize the entire political apparatus for exploiting the system and draining taxpayers’ resources.

“The political landscape is disheartening, with rampant exploitation,” Kapasi lamented. Nevertheless, voters across New Delhi, spanning age and ideology, share a common yearning to purify the political sphere and enhance accountability.

Yoga instructor Ajay Sud, 63, called for a greater emphasis on integrity and education among politicians. Financial consultant Dhiren Singh echoed this sentiment, hoping for less corruption and more enlightened leadership.

Kuldip Chadha, 82, while acknowledging the prevalence of scams and corruption, sees elections as a beacon of hope for future generations. “We aspire for a promising life for our offspring and their successors within an upright system.”