The recent Lok Sabha Electons of 2019 is a huge phenomenon happening in India, where billions of the world’s largest democracy decides who they want as their leader. And obviously, that saturates every media platform – digital or electronic – with a disturbing amount of noise of opinions coming from every corner of the country, most of it being plain follow-the-herd opinions, or sometimes not even making sense.

Political debate is a rather fickle thing. There is a reason why it is said that there are two things that should never be discussed on a large public platform – religion, and politics. Being politically aware is an amazing quality to have. Being a responsible citizen, choosing what is right for you, and voting for that choice is what makes India. We make India what it is. Politics is controversial in itself, debating it requires a certain morality. When a humongous platform such as the social media arrives, the morality is compromised.

Being politically aware is kind of an attractive quality. It does not simply imply watching news channels at dinner and going to sleep. It has to do with knowing your country, your area. Today, one needs to voice an opinion, and can. This is the beauty of democracy. Today each one of us has the power to speak up because of social media. Each one of us can see the change there is in the country. Being politically aware does not just mean looking at all the negatives and criticizing them. It also means being in touch with our local councilors and representatives and helping if and when we can.

Who does not like people with complete factual knowledge, and the confidence to go ahead and speak up when things seem wrong in the society. People love those who believe in taking action, being a part of a larger picture to bring about required change. Putting forth a point in a way that not only makes a point but does not insult the opposition, is the best way to make a good impression. Remember Abhay Deol’s character from Raanjhanaa? That’s what we mean here.

However, in a self-imposed competition to feel superior, intellectual, and perhaps be accepted into a social certain and feel important, people indulge in a political debate. The subliminal reasons behind this are endless, but in the end, these opinions turn into snarky remarks and accusations, eventually turning into nasty fights online.

Discussing politics always ends up in arguments. Most of us already know this. But why do we still indulge in these? And even when we do, what do we care more about - what is happening to the country, or one of the political party leader you despised said something instigating and controversial against the one leader you like?

It is during the time  of elections when people sharpen their intellectual and egotist knives, and argue like that politicial they like will win solely on the basis of the next comment on that post or thread is, replying to some unknown social media user who continues this cycle.

Twitter is one platform where we can see anyone and everyone’s opinions out there. Those who are apolitical are generally shamed. There are two sides – bhakts or liberals, no in-between. Half-arsed arguments from those with fancy display pictures of a foreign location in the background use more cuss words than facts that makes women cringe from people with the display pictures of the Prime Minister, or the widely mocked leader of the opposition party.

Even the well-educated argue mindlessly, trolling anyone who disagrees with them. However, if there is a woman who has agreed with you, that’s the perfect moment to slide into her DMs. And same applies for women. Women do get attracted to intellectual men, but this intellect is just a façade.

Yes, being informed is what we aim for. That makes us approachable. Having an opinion makes us different, unique. Expressing those opinions online, done respectfully is admirable. But anybody who indulges in a political debate on social media is not at all desirable.

There are people who actually look down on you if you say you are apolitical. Being politically aware is about having an opinion about any party, its ruling style, its fundamental laws and core philosophy. Several of these opinions help in changing the way India functions. However, yelling online in an online space with a traffic of billions just to impress someone is not desirable. Being a newfound political nerd does not make you brainy and sexy. It’s a remotely desirable trait.

The young population of India is remarkably smart, making wise decisions about everything. Some manage to become the young heroes we need without chasing the high of being appreciated. In the end, this country has something that nobody else does - a diverse population with strength of billions, that will possibly, be the super power it deserves to be.