THE FAILURE of the political system to bring about a fundamental change in the lives of average Indians has left 26-year-old Kaustubh Londhe a bitter man. Frustrated by the never changing ways of the Indian politicians, the Puneite has decided to fight the next Lok Sabha elections as an independent candidate from Pune.

Knowing that his entering the fray would not dent any political fortune, Kaustubh, who could perhaps be one of the youngest candidates in the electoral fray, argues that he is fighting the election as a mark of protest.

“I want to tell the politicians that their failure to deliver the goods has forced me to fight the elections,” said the operations manager of a Pune based company, adding that this will also inspire people to come out of their homes and demand change.

With money power and influence deciding the party candidates, Kaustubh said his aim is to create awareness among the masses that ordinary people can also contest elections and participate in the political process.

When asked how was he canvassing with the people, he replied, “I am not interested in publicity as such, I will go to the people directly after filing the nomination papers. My only call to the people is that they should vote for people, who are committed to development and to the cause of people. ”

If he wins the elections, the 26-year-old, who appears to have matured beyond his years, says, “I will do what people ask me to do and listen to their problems.” Pune is facing a multitude of problems including traffic and unemployment but there has been no solution, he said, adding that the people need deliverance and not sermons from politicians.

“My message to people is simple that if we can get together then a lot of things can be achieved without any outside help,” he asserted. His candidature, he reiterated was a mark of protest against the failure of the governance being provided by the present set of leaders.

“My family is supporting me as my cause is genuine but there are lot of people who are sceptical,” he admitted, saying that there were colleagues and friends, who were joking at his attempt at the hustings.

“I know I am not going to win but this cannot stop me from raising my voice and telling everyone that people of India want change and they will have it at all costs,” he states with passion.