Kerala Student Voices Concerns on Local Issues and Political Expectations
Hridya S Nair, a 20-year-old first-year BA Malayalam student at Aluva UC College in Kerala, hailing from Kaitharam in North Paravur, has shared her candid perspectives on the current government and her expectations for the future. In a detailed interview, she highlighted both satisfactions and pressing concerns affecting her daily life and community.
Government Performance and Daily Challenges
When asked about her satisfaction with the government, Hridya responded, "Not fully, but I find it okay compared to many other state governments." However, she pointed to significant issues impacting her routine. The biggest problem she faces is the piling up of waste in her locality. This not only creates an unsanitary environment but also attracts stray dogs that feed on the garbage, causing a menace for residents.
Financial strains are another major concern. Hridya explained that her family relies on her father's bike for transportation, with petrol costs being a substantial burden. Additionally, power bills have surged, and vegetable prices have skyrocketed, making it difficult to keep up with expenses. To manage financially, she takes tuition classes, showcasing the economic pressures on students in the region.
Infrastructure and Basic Amenities
On a positive note, Hridya confirmed that her area receives regular water and electricity supply, indicating some stability in essential services. However, road conditions are a mixed bag. "Many roads were repaired ahead of civic polls, but some have deteriorated already," she noted, suggesting temporary fixes rather than sustainable infrastructure development.
Career Aspirations and Political Trust
Despite the challenges, Hridya is committed to staying in Kerala. She is studying Malayalam and aims to become a teacher, expressing no desire to leave the state for better opportunities. When it comes to politics, she admitted, "I don't have any experience, but I guess political corruption has increased," reflecting a common skepticism among youth.
In terms of voting priorities, Hridya emphasized that the party is foremost in assembly polls, while at lower levels like local self-governments, the candidate's qualities take precedence. This nuanced view highlights her engagement with the political process.
Expectations from the Next Government
Looking ahead, Hridya has clear expectations for improvement. She called for better infrastructure, specifically urging that metro facilities be extended to more regions to enhance connectivity and development. When asked about the upcoming election, she unequivocally stated "Change" as her preference, indicating a desire for new approaches to address the issues she highlighted.
Her insights shed light on the priorities of young voters in Kerala, focusing on practical concerns like waste management, cost of living, and infrastructure, alongside a cautious hope for political reform and enhanced public services in the future.
