Despite battling pneumonia and relying on oxygen support, a 78-year-old woman showcased remarkable determination by casting her vote in Karnataka’s Lok Sabha elections on Friday. Her inspiring act unfolded against the backdrop of challenging medical circumstances, highlighting the significance of civic participation.
Medical Crisis and Resilience
The woman’s journey began when she was admitted to Manipal Hospitals Jayanagar, Bengaluru, after experiencing symptoms of cough, breathlessness, and exhaustion. Medical assessments revealed her oxygen levels plummeted to 80 percent, indicating severe respiratory distress caused by pneumonia affecting both lungs. Despite undergoing extensive treatment, including antibiotics, oxygen therapy, and antiviral medications, her resolve to exercise her democratic right remained unwavering.
Civic Duty Amidst Adversity
Undeterred by her health predicament, the septuagenarian expressed her fervent desire to vote, aligning with the polling day for 14 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka. With the assistance of the medical team, she was transported to a nearby polling booth in the Jayanagar constituency, where she cast her vote while being carried on a stretcher. Her determination serves as a poignant reminder of the power of civic engagement, transcending personal challenges for the greater good of society.
Challenges and Participation
As the voting process unfolded, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued warnings of heat wave-like conditions, with Bengaluru experiencing temperatures ranging between 36.4 and 38.4 degrees Celsius. Despite these adversities, an estimated 22.34 percent turnout was reported by 11 am, with citizens queuing up at polling booths across the state to exercise their electoral rights.
Political Landscape
In the electoral fray, the Congress contested all 14 seats, while the BJP fielded candidates in 11 seats, with its alliance partner JD(S) contesting in three constituencies—Hassan, Mandya, and Kolar. Against the backdrop of political dynamics, the woman’s act of voting amid health challenges serves as a poignant testament to the enduring spirit of democracy and civic responsibility.
