Chennai: Retired judge Kirubakaran has appealed to young people to treat election victories and defeats as a normal part of democratic life, and not as a personal crisis.
Speaking to reporters, he said social media posts around elections have become disturbing, with some users making extreme statements and threats of self-harm if their preferred candidate or party does not win. He stressed that supporting a party and working for it is natural, but expecting only one party to contest or insisting that others should not stand is against the spirit of democracy.
Kirubakaran noted that in a democracy, the side that receives the majority of votes will win. If a party wins, supporters can celebrate; if it loses, they should prepare for the next election. He pointed out that even major leaders such as Indira Gandhi, C N Annadurai and J Jayalalithaa faced defeats and later returned to power.
Referring to the election held on the 24th and the vote count scheduled for the 4th, he urged all political parties to issue a public statement asking the younger generation not to take results too intensely. He also called on actors with large fan bases to convey the same message before counting day.
He added that families should closely watch how youth and children react, and seek medical help if needed. He appealed to social activists and retired judges to speak up as well, warning young people against taking wrong decisions and reminding them of their responsibilities to their families.
