Bengaluru: Age is just a number, isn’t it? You can certainly do wonders even if you are growing old. And not to talk of discharging responsibilities! 

Shyam Saran Negi, a 103-year-old cast his vote at the panchayat elections in Himachal Pradesh on Sunday. 

When a senior of his age comes out to perform his duty, the whole system was in awe of him. A red carpet had been rolled out. As soon as he reached the polling station, the deputy commissioner felicitated him. 

 

So what does he think of politics? He says, “Politics has also changed over time. Some tricksters are winning elections. These people become a threat to society and development. I already knew about the panchayat elections, so woke up some time ago. I was shown ballot papers. I had memorized the names. I had decided whom to vote during the 5-minute walk from my house. I had to walk a few steps, but the excitement of the election was different. I am getting the respect of the voters of the country. What else do I need?” as quoted by Dainik Bhasker. 

So what would be his message to youngsters? 

Well, he adds, “Those who do not vote make a big mistake. In democracy, vote has great value. Good leaders will not come when you do not vote. Election is an occasion when we can choose the government of our choice. Only if we choose a good government will the country move in the right direction. Therefore, consider the responsibility in every polling”. 

Interestingly, when he was given the offer of being picked up, he refused it and said, “The vote is mine and I will walk”. 

It is such senior souls that are guiding lights  to the society.