Colours Of Democracy: Rickshaw Puller, Nurse In Odisha Panchayat Poll Fray

With the three-tier panchayat elections in the State scheduled from February 16, candidates have intensified their campaigning.

Sanatan Das, a rickshaw puller by profession, and Anjana Behera, a nurse, have joined the poll fray. 

Sanatan is contesting for Sarpanch post in Mandarpur Panchayat of Remuna Block in Balasore district, while Anjana is a Sarpanch aspirant from Deulapada Panchayat in Kendrapara district.

Sanatan, who earns his livelihood by working as a rickshaw puller is not new to politics. He had earlier contested for Samiti Member and Sarpanch posts. However he was not successful, but that didn't deter him from trying his luck in polls once again.

Sanatan says, "Politics is not just for the rich, but it also gives equal chance to the poor."

He believes with the support of his supporters he can win the election and work for the betterment of his Panchayat.

Santan pedals his tri-cycle day in and day out to eke out a living. He is now using his trusted carrier in traversing several kilometres every day for canvassing in the Panchayat. He makes a point to visit every household.

He says he has "received positive response so far," and is confident of winning the poll.

Similarly, Anjana Behera who is a qualified nurse jumped into the poll arena to serve people.

Anjana says she wants to serve the people by helping them to get rid of their problem in their respective localities and improve the condition of the neighbourhood.

Anjana is leaving no stone unturned and has been knocking the doors to contact people personally and persuade them to vote for her in the upcoming polls.