It is heartening to note many readers have prayed for a free, fair and peaceful election and for a effective government thereafter. A government that looks after the needs of the the minorities and weaker sections.

The CSF has been inundated with inquiries as to whom to vote for in a multi-cornered contest - BJP, MNS, NCP, MIM, Congress, Samajwadi, Shiv Sena or Independents

Every party claims to be secular, even though there is proof that they are not. But you know the candidates. You know their track record. You know their public service.
Agreed that they are expected to toe the party line. But if they know you voted for them, they could either convince the party to soften its line or treat you as an exception.

Hence, our take-it-or leave-it advise would be to think and vote for a candidate, who:

1. Has a proven record of not being communal - neither discriminating against minorities, nor favouring any section.

2. Has a track of service as an elected representative of getting jobs done for the constituency.

3. Has the best chance of defeating a candidate, who does not possess any the above.

Finally, you have the NOTA option, if you find None Of The Above parties or candidates, worthy of your vote.

But, Vote You Must.

Remember, if you don't vote, a wrong candidate may be elected.

Your brother in Christ

Joe Dias