'Pressing buttons on an EVM isn't enough'

Sankardeva scholar & translator Dayananda Pathak talks to TOI’ about polls, politics & the need for educated voters.
Q: What do you expect from this assembly election?
Pathak: In a vibrant democracy like ours, it's very important that each and every legitimate citizen exercises the cherished right to vote. At the same time, simply pressing a button on the EVM is not enough.Citizens need to think about the current situation and make an informed decision.
Q: What change have you noticed in political campaigning in the state this time?
Pathak: Political parties, whether Congress, AGP or BJP, have a tendency to ignore grassroots workers. In some constituencies, I've seen political leaders ignoring workers' choice of candidates and opting for others. This is not right.
Q: What do you think are the development issues in Assam?
Pathak: There hasn't been much development in the past 15 years. For example, railway tracks haven't been extended to many parts of the state since 1947. Road connectivity in the interiors of Assam is a major problem. Even with a river like the Brahmaputra at our disposal, water supply remains limited. We need to go back to the basics.
Q: What do you think ails politics in Assam?
Pathak: Family-centric politics and political nepotism are a matter of concern in the state.
Q: What is the solution, according to you?
Pathak: I think education is the only solution. People need to be wrenched out of poverty. An educated voter is a vote against a corrupt system.