It is learnt that the South collector, who is also the district election officer, said that restaurants in South Goa will offer lunch at discounted rates on polling day. The authorities have reportedly linked 60 restaurants for this purpose. The voters will have to show their finger ink mark in order to confirm they have voted. This is a novel way to show appreciation to the voters for exercising their franchise. However, care needs to be taken to check that the finger ink mark is that which is provided at the polling booth. It will come as a welcome move for voters, especially the senior citizens, who have come from far off places and have had to stand in long queues in order to cast their votes. This is a good idea because the polling day coincides with Valentine’s Day. It will, in a way, be an impetus for the youth and first-time voters to cast their votes. It is understood that the discounted rate is available in restaurants located only in South Goa. It would be in the fitness of things to extend this offer in restaurants across the state as it is a feel-good factor that has been introduced in the election probably for the first time. It would also be desirable to provide free mineral water bottles outside each and every polling booth as voters may have to bear the heat of the afternoon sun.
