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<aside> 💡 "Learn more about his Journey"
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At the heart of Vishwatma's philosophy lies the concept of "votership." He argues that voters, who form the foundation of democracy, should be compensated for their role in the political process, just as legislators, executives, and judiciary members are. This revolutionary idea posits that every voter should receive a monthly "votership" or pension of around Rs 6,000 (as of 2016 rates). This compensation is not merely a financial incentive; it is a recognition of the vital role that citizens play in shaping their government and society.
Vishwatma's concept of votership can be seen as a form of universal basic income, aimed at reducing poverty and enhancing the quality of life for millions of Indians. By ensuring that every voter receives financial support, he hopes to empower individuals to participate more actively in the democratic process, thereby fostering a more engaged and informed citizenry.
In 2002, Vishwatma took a significant step in his advocacy by launching the Voters Party International (VPI). The party was established to promote his ideas and bring about necessary changes in the Indian political system. Over the next three years, he addressed more than 500 public meetings in Meerut and Bihar, garnering immense public support for his proposals. His ability to connect with the grassroots and articulate the concerns of ordinary citizens has been a hallmark of his approach.
Inspired by a farmer's suggestion during a public meeting in Champaran, Bihar, in 2003, Vishwatma shifted his focus from public outreach to convincing members of Parliament (MPs) directly. He believed that if MPs understood and supported his ideas, they could be translated into laws, and the people would then understand their role and act accordingly.
This strategic pivot underscored his belief in the importance of engaging with the political establishment to effect change. In 2008, Vishwatma's efforts bore fruit when 137 MPs endorsed his votership proposal for debate under Rule 193. Although the discussion never took place, the endorsement highlighted the growing recognition of his ideas within the political sphere. An 11-member committee was formed to examine the feasibility of the votership proposal, marking a significant moment in Vishwatma's journey as a changemaker.
Vishwatma's journey has not been without challenges. In 2020, he was arrested in Dimapur, Nagaland, along with other VPI members, on charges of misleading people by accepting donations and promising a monthly votership. The case is still under consideration in local courts, and a petition filed in the Guwahati High Court is also pending. These legal challenges have posed significant hurdles to his advocacy work.
Despite these setbacks, Vishwatma remains undeterred in his mission. He continues to organize training camps and public meetings across India, engaging with political reformers and the general public alike. His resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to his commitment to his cause.
