1 time voters feel empowered in Pune

Pune: An ink mark on her finger gave Apoorva Joglekar, a first time voter, the sense of empowerment. 
“The smooth process ensured being a part of this democratic exercise is worth it. It was a great experience to be voting for the first time.” 
There was an enthusiastic bunch of first-time voters who seemed to have left no leaf unturned in order to exercise their duty.
For cousins Aishwarya and Eshan Phatak, patiently waited in the queue for forty five minutes before exercising their franchise was worth the efforts. “With first time voters making it a point to vote country would make progress,” said Eeshan, who along with his cousin Aishwarya, cast his vote at Dr Narhar Kashinath Gharpure Prashala (Erstwhile Saraswati Mandir School) on Bajirao Road.
With a very clear idea of why one must cast vote, resident of Golf Residency Ankit Mathur said that he did not support any party or ideology. 
“I have gone through the profile of all the candidates in my constituency in detail. It is only after that I have cast my ballot today,” he said. 
Never had any political claims, campaigns or ideas interested this 50-year-old Vimannagar resident. But campaigns for 2014 Lok Sabha elections were different and did wonders on Archana Chopra, a first timer.
“I never took interest in elections or voting as I was never convinced that it was ever important to exercise one’s duties. But this time, I could notice a positive change through these campaigns and slogans which is why I decided to be here and provide my support,” said Chopra. 
An assertive and increasing citizen participation was observed during this year’s polling with a non-Puneites voting in large number. One such voter was 26-year-old Pallika Jasswal of Varanasi origin. “But it was only after I went to the booth could I sense the importance of voting, which has changed my outlook towards this whole process,” said Jasswal, who is stays with her brother in the city.