As Haryana Polls Near, Hisar’s Youth Discusses Jobs, Nationalism

The Quint’s chaupal reaches Haryana’s Hisar.

(Photo: Altered by The Quint)

Video Editor: Vishal Kumar

As Haryana polls inch closer, scheduled on 21 October, The Quint’s chaupal arrived at Haryana’s Hisar to gauge the demand of the youth of the state. We spoke to them about jobs, nationalism, women’s safety, and other election-related issues with government service aspirants.

Punishment for Not Chanting ‘Vande Mataram’?

Meneka, a student, said about nationalism,

“Muslims living here never say ‘Vande Mataram’ or ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and yet, they live here. They have jobs and are getting salaries. Those who don’t say ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ should be punished.”

Disagreeing with Meneka, Ankit said,

“Saying ‘Vande Mataram’ does not make anybody a nationalist. Government has divided the country with the Hindu-Muslim narrative. Saying ‘Jai Shri Ram’ makes you a nationalist and if you don’t say it, you are called a ‘terrorist’. Similarly, if you support the government, you’re a nationalist and if you don’t, then you’re an anti-national. This is not right.”

What’s Haryana’s Job Scene Like?

The Quint questioned the youth about jobs in Haryana, and most of them expressed disappointment. Many said they’re happy that the trend of ‘bribery to get jobs’ is past.