20 August,2026 12:40 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Amit Thackeray. Pic/Facebook
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Amit Thackeray has urged young voters not to take elections lightly, saying political decisions have a direct impact on everyday issues such as roads, education and public transport.
In a post on X, Thackeray said people need to question elected representatives about their performance instead of remaining silent on issues affecting their daily lives.
"Every little or big thing in your daily life is directly connected to politics, which is why I earnestly told my young friends today: 'Never take elections lightly!'"
He cited potholes, problems in the education system, the NEET examination issue and difficulties faced by commuters on local trains as examples of issues that are closely linked to political decisions.
"Be it the potholes on the roads today, the mess in education, the NEET exam issue, or the life-threatening commutes in local trains... we sit quietly, we don't ask questions, and that's why this situation has arisen," he said.
Thackeray alleged that people's concerns in Maharashtra have been pushed aside, while political parties have focused on defections and attempts to split elected representatives.
"Unfortunately, in our Maharashtra, people's real issues have been completely sidelined. The only politics everyone is engaged in is how to split MLAs, corporators, and MPs!"
Thackeray also referred to Tamil Nadu's approach to the NEET issue, saying political differences were set aside by most opposition parties when a resolution on the matter was discussed in the state assembly.
"We should learn something from Tamil Nadu. On the NEET issue, when a resolution came up in their assembly, all opposition parties except one set aside their political differences and supported it," he said.
He also pointed out that MNS chief Raj Thackeray had opposed NEET as early as 2016 and urged young voters to consider which political leaders were genuinely raising issues concerning their interests.
Thackeray said young people have the ability to demand accountability from those they elect and should focus on their work rather than caste or religion.
"You young people have great power in asking questions. Question the one you're electing right now: Why don't we get basic facilities? Why do our children have to go to another country after completing their education?"
"Without getting stuck in any caste or religion, just question the work. Those who don't do the work, send them straight home in the next election!"
He called for greater participation from young voters and said change would not come if people remained silent.
"Remember, change doesn't happen by sitting quietly... Now is not the time to stay silent, it's time to demand answers!" he said.
