How Bastar villagers taught naxals the power of democracy

Villagers in Bastar, Chattisgarh have now cast their vote in the first phase of general elections amid high security. Despite threats from naxals to boycott the election, villagers walked 10km to the polling stations.

The village does not have any amenities and the residents have to walk atleast 10km even to gain access to basic needs. No government representative has ever reached the village.

The villagers believe that their votes might help them in getting roads, a good educational institution and access to fundamental needs.

Due to persistent naxal activity, the polling booth was shifted from Elangnaar to Tahkwada. More than 200 villagers out of the eligible 357 voted. 

Some villagers were seen removing the ink mark from their fingers by rubbing it with stones due to the fear of naxals.