Even in twilight,they are ready to beep in a new dawn

“The excitement of being able to vote after 20 years cannot be explained. I can still recall the time when I was in college and voted for the first time. That was the only time I got to vote,” said Dolly.

Monika Datta (78) might look weak,but she is determined to vote in this election. Datta has been living in the old age home for 10 years — since her husband died. “I used to stay with my husband in Gariahat. I had voted once but do not remember when. I have applied for my voter card,” she said.

Sarnolata Chandra (75) had to leave her son’s place to provide “more breathing space for her grandchildren”. Born in Bhowanipore,Chandra stayed with her in-laws and children till her husband expired. Since then she has been staying at Nabonir. Chandra thinks by casting her vote,she will become independent once again. “There are times when my son visits. But I do not remember when I had last voted. Perhaps my card is with my son. Today,I am keen to exercise my rights once again,” said Chandra.

As many years have passed since these women last voted,most of them are apprehensive whether they will be able to use the latest technology. Most of the time they are either glued to the television,or reading newspapers to learn all what’s going on in the world of politics.

At Nabonir,there are the likes of Lila Talukdar as well,who have voted in the last elections. “In 2004,I was living with my children. But now I have been sent to this old age home. I have three sons and four daughters. My voter card is with one of my sons. But they do not visit me anymore so I cannot vote this time. By next election,I might not even be alive,” she said.