Tomorrow residents of the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu take to the polls as India's elections draw to a close. No doubt some will be looking forward to the cessation of campaigning. Typical to other happenings, campaigning included parades/processions, dancing & drumming, firecrackers, and loudspeakers. When bigwigs came through, entire streets were closed - or traffic brought to a standstill. Pamphlets were handed out, adding to the already litter-strewn streets. The Tamil situation in Sri Lanka was a hot topic on both sides, drawing an ever-increasing amount of attention in the last couple of weeks. Politicians have noticed the increasing importance that the south plays in national politics, translating local strength to a nationwide influence. This year, Tamil Nadu will send 39 MPs to the parliament in Delhi. Bribes were also a part of the election, with "gifts" of money (between 100-200 rupees per voter or up to 5,000 rupees for a family), saris, alcohol, and jewelry given in exchange for one's vote. Those living in "slum" areas were particularly targeted.
Voters must show a special voting identity card when going to vote. A special ink mark is then placed on their finger to prevent double-voting. Ballots are electronic. Counting throughout the country should occur on the 16th. Contradicting many businesses, my school will be open tomorrow. Faculty who are Indian residents are allowed to come in late or leave early if they have a free period at the end of the day. Will it be a peacefulvoting day? Or will tensions, including the Tamils in Sri Lanka cause turmoil? What will it be like as votes are counted? And me? I'll be in my air-conditioned apartment, resting from surgery, removed from the events going on throughout the area.
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