Is Delhi better than Mumbai?

Sukumar Ranganathan — Thu, 07 May 2009 13:06:00 GMT

That's my finger. I voted today -- the choice was quite simple really; I simply voted for the candidate who took the trouble to meet me and tell me what he plans to do if elected -- and, according to the Election Commission, so did one out of two Delhi-ites.

That number is much higher than the 41-44% turnout seen in Mumbai, despite the general perception that the terror attacks of November would see the city's residents turn out in huge numbers and vote. In 2004, the turnout in Mumbai was 47%, almost the same as in Delhi that year.

What this means is that voter turnout in Delhi has gone up since 2004.

I moved to this city almost 12 years ago. It isn't my favourite city in the world but it has become home and I have always felt that it doesn't get a fair deal -- especially from residents of Mumbai and Bangalore. For the record, voter turnout in Bangalore this year was 51%, down from 62% in 2004. Oops!

I know, merely voting in an election doesn't mean you know how to interact with women or what right-of-way means, but surely, it does count for something?

So, while Mumbai might have flipped India a bird, Delhi has let its finger do the talking.

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Why Mumbai showed India the finger

Sukumar Ranganathan — Fri, 01 May 2009 07:38:00 GMT

Mumbai may have flipped India a bird by simply not turning up to vote yesterday -- despite attempts by activisit groups to get them to exercise their franchise.
According to the Election Commission, voter turnout in Mumbai was between 42% and 45% this time, as compared to 47% in the 2004 parliamentary elections.
But does anyone know why those who voted too seemed to be flipping India a bird as the three Bachchans are doing in this photograph?

I am told the reason is pretty well-known in Mumbai.
This article, for instance, says why.
Not too many people in other parts of the country, however, were aware of this.
And were witness to several celebrities flipping a bid at the cameras.
This blogger considers that one of the high points of the election coverage this year.

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A Daily Download : Mumbai

Is Delhi better than Mumbai?

Why Mumbai showed India the finger