Bengaluru Voters Offered Free Breakfast, Rides, And Beer To Boost Turnout

In an effort to increase voter turnout in Bengaluru, several restaurants and commercial establishments have decided to offer complimentary breakfasts and discounts to customers who display their inked fingers after voting in the Lok Sabha elections 2024.

The move comes as concerns over low voter turnout loom large, with polling day falling on a Friday (April 26) and soaring temperatures adding to the challenges.

Free benne Khali dosa, ghee laddu, and juice

Nisarga Grand Hotel on Nrupathunga Road announced that they would offer free benne Khali dosa, ghee laddu, and juice on April 26 to voters who show their inked fingers as proof of voting.

Other Bengaluru restaurants joining the initiative include Malgudi Mylari Mane, which will offer free Mylari dosa and filter coffee, Cafe Udupi Ruchi, offering a free mocktail, and Iyengar's Oven Fresh Bakery, providing a 10 percent discount. Additionally, Kamat Hosaruchi in Orion Mall and Lulu Mall will offer a 10 percent discount to voters.

SP Krishnaraj, the owner of Nisarga Grand Hotel, told moneycontrol about the inspiration behind the initiative, stating, "We started the concept of offering free food to those who cast their votes during the 2018 assembly polls. A group of youngsters who visited the restaurant were hesitant to cast their votes. I tried to convince them, and they asked if they would receive free dosa if they cast their vote. I agreed. Then they said they would bring their friends. I assured them that I would provide complimentary food to everyone who voted. It's our democratic right and a celebration of democracy."

He further explained that they would serve free breakfast to voters from 7 am to 6 pm, aiming to encourage more people to vote. He emphasized that they would not ask for any identity card or inquire about whom the voter had chosen.

Krishnaraj noted that during the 2023 assembly polls, they served complimentary food to 5,100 people and expected to serve 6,000 to 6,500 people this time.

Karnataka HC Allows Complimentary Food for Voters with Conditions

The Karnataka High Court recently permitted establishments of the Bruhat Bangalore Hotels Association to serve complimentary food to voters who show proof of voting on April 26. PC Rao, president of the association, clarified that their efforts are not aligned with any political party but aim to boost the polling percentage.

Free Rides for Voters: Rapido Partners with ECI and BBMP

Meanwhile, Rapido, a bike taxi service, has partnered with the Election Commission of India (ECI) and Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to offer free rides to voters. Citizens can avail of free rides using the code 'VOTENOW' on the Rapido app. The initiative aims to facilitate residents' voting rights and ensure a more inclusive electoral process.

BMRCL to Run Namma Metro Till Midnight on Election Day

In another move to facilitate voting, Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has decided to extend its Namma Metro services on election day. The last train services from all four terminal stations will run until 11:55 pm, with the last train from Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Station Majestic leaving at 12:35 am on April 27.

Wonderla Holidays Offers 15% Discount to Voters!

Wonderla Holidays, a well-known amusement park, is offering a 15% discount on tickets to voters who show their inked fingers. This offer is valid for three days, starting from the election day on April 26. To avail of the discount, visitors must present their inked finger at the park entrance for verification.

Free Beer and Discounts Await Voters in Bengaluru Post-Polling

Deck of Brews, a brewpub located in Kadubeesanahalli, Bengaluru, is treating the first 50 guests who show their inked finger on April 27, Saturday, to a complimentary beer, following the polling day.

Meanwhile, SOCIAL, an urban hangout space, is offering a 20% discount on meals to customers who present their bills after voting at any of their outlets. A spokesperson mentioned, "A few days prior to the voting day, we will issue bills with a special message encouraging voting. Guests who return with these bills after voting and display their inked finger will enjoy a 20% discount on their next meal. This offer is valid for one week from the voting date in their respective city."