Establishments go all out to cash in on poll fever

In an avowed bid to boost voter turnout, pubs, restaurants, hospitals, malls and garment stores are offering discounts to those who cast their vote on April 17.

But in reality, it could well be an opportunity to give a push to their own businesses.

To encourage voters to take part in the electoral exercise, Brigade Group has come up with two initiatives. As part of their ''Vote Then Drink Campaign,'' High Ultra Lounge, managed by Brigade Hospitality, is offering a free glass of wine to those who show the indelible ink mark on April 17 between 6-10 pm.

Besides, the group has also put up billboards at vantage points in the City with interesting catch phrases to make their presence felt and also encourage voters.

Sankara Eye Hospital, along with Young India campaign (Yi), are offering 50 per cent discount on their consultation fee to patients on April 17 and 18, and free Lasik screening for a period of 14 days, from the date of polling.

Patients will have to show doctors the indelible ink mark as proof in order to avail the discount, according to a release from the hospital.

This is a nationwide campaign being held from April 17-May 7 in Shimoga, Coimbatore, Mumbai, Ludhiana, Anand, Kanpur, Guntur and Vijayawada.

Siddharth Venkatesh, chairperson of Young Indian Bangalore, said: “With 15 crore first time voters, India cannot afford any voter apathy. An innovative approach was needed to encourage voting and thus was born young Indians ‘Show the ink and see prices sink campaign’.”

Zicom Electronic Security Systems has also rolled out offers, including a 15 per cent discount on its product DIY-CCTV to secure one’s residence. Jana Priya Public Charitable Trust is offering photocopying at 25 paise per side for educational purpose only to those who have cast their vote.