Pulwama Celebrates 16th National Voters’ Day

Bilal Habib 

Pulwama, Jan 25: District Administration Pulwama today organized a mega function at Government Degree College (Boys), Pulwama, to mark the 16th National Voters’ Day, aimed at promoting electoral awareness, participation and strengthening democratic values among citizens, particularly youth and first-time voters.

The event was celebrated under the theme “My India, My Vote”, which symbolizes the Election Commission of India’s commitment towards citizen-centric electoral processes and inclusive participation in democracy.

The programme commenced with the rendition of the National Anthem, setting a solemn and patriotic tone for the event, followed by a welcome address by the Deputy District Election Officer, who highlighted key initiatives being undertaken by the Election Commission of India to improve electoral roll accuracy, enhance voter services and ensure greater transparency and efficiency in the electoral process

The event featured a rich array of cultural performances, including folk songs, skits, Rouf, student speeches and traditional Ladisha, portraying the importance, power and responsibility of voting in a democratic society.

Speaking on the occasion, District Election Officer (DEO), Dr. Basharat Qayoom, said that National Voters’ Day is celebrated annually on January 25 since 2011 to commemorate the foundation day of the Election Commission of India, established on January 25, 1950. He said that this year’s theme “My India, My Vote” reflects the Commission’s sustained efforts to build a robust, inclusive and voter-friendly electoral system.

The DEO urged all eligible but unregistered citizens, particularly youth, to enroll themselves at the earliest and actively participate in the democratic process. While appreciating the dedicated efforts of Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and supervisors, the DEO said that the electoral roll is the backbone of the electoral process and that BLOs play a pivotal role in ensuring its effective management, accuracy and credibility.

Dr. Qayoom also commended the remarkable increase in voter turnout in Pulwama district during the preceding Lok Sabha and Legislative Assembly elections, stating that it reflects growing democratic awareness and public trust in the electoral system.

The DEO further highlighted the importance of democratic values and called upon citizens, especially young voters, to exercise their franchise responsibly, emphasizing that informed electoral participation is essential for a vibrant democracy.

Later, the DEO administered the Voters’ Pledge, wherein participants pledged to vote freely and fairly, without fear, bias or discrimination based on religion, race, caste, community or language.

Besides, on the occasion, mementos and certificates were distributed among Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), Assistant EROs, PWD icon, young voter, first-time/future voter, senior citizen, election staff, District Level Master Trainers (DLMTs), supervisors, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) for their commendable performance in previous elections while Students who presented cultural performances were also felicitated.

Among others, the programme was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police, Pulwama, Tanushree; Commandant 183 BN CRPF; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Pulwama; Chief Education Officer, Pulwama; EROs, AEROs, civil society groups, students, youth and volunteer organisations such as NCC and NYCs, supervisors and BLOs.