Convener News Desk
Bandipora, Jan 25: The 16th National Voters’ Day was celebrated with enthusiasm across Bandipora district on Saturday, with the main function held at the auditorium of N.M. Higher Secondary School, Kaloosa, under the national theme “My India, My Vote”.
The central event was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, and attended by Assistant Commissioner Revenue Shabir Ahmad Wani, Deputy District Election Officer Er. Hilal Ahmad, Nodal Officer SVEEP, district and sectoral officers, students and youth from various educational institutions.
The programme began with the administration of the National Voters’ Day Pledge, reaffirming collective commitment to democratic values and informed participation in the electoral process. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner described National Voters’ Day as a celebration of democracy and an important platform to inspire youth and first-time voters to actively engage in elections. She appreciated the role of Booth Level Officers, Anganwadi workers and election staff for their sustained efforts in ensuring free, fair and transparent elections in the district.
Highlighting the importance of youth participation, the DC said that democracy draws its real strength from informed and responsible voters, urging young citizens to exercise their franchise without fear or influence. She also underscored the role of voter awareness initiatives in strengthening democratic institutions at the grassroots.
Speaking on the occasion, ACR Bandipora Shabir Ahmad Wani stressed the significance of electoral literacy in deepening democratic participation. He shared district-level data related to voter enrolment, electoral rolls and election management, and called for continuous awareness among citizens about their voting rights and procedures.
The event featured a range of awareness and cultural activities, including student speeches on the importance of voting, a skit titled “My India, My Vote” performed by students of BHSS Bandipora, a patriotic song by Mohammad Iqbal Lone, and the screening of a documentary highlighting initiatives of the District Administration on voter awareness, electoral literacy and summary revision campaigns.
On the occasion, Electors Photo Identity Cards were distributed among newly registered voters, while mementos were presented to Booth Level Officers and officials in recognition of their contribution to election-related duties. Earlier, Deputy Chief Education Officer Dr G.M. Pujoo, in his welcome address, highlighted National Voters’ Day as a means to nurture informed, aware and responsible citizens. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the Deputy District Election Officer.
Meanwhile, National Voters’ Day was also observed at Dak Banglow Sumbal, where Electoral Registration Officer Murtaza Ahmad Sheikh emphasised the goal of achieving 100 per cent EPIC coverage, transparent electoral registration and enhanced voter participation. EPICs were distributed to newly enrolled voters, followed by the administration of the Voters’ Pledge.
Similar programmes were held in Sub-Division Gurez under the leadership of SDM Gurez Mukhtar Ahmad, focusing on voter awareness and democratic participation. Speakers highlighted the importance of every vote, particularly among youth and first-time voters, and reiterated the commitment to uphold democratic values through informed electoral participation.
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