Young voters sensitised on 7th National Voters' day
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 25 2017:
Like in the rest of the country, the 7th National Voter's Day was also observed today at City Convention Centre, Palace Compound Imphal on the theme 'Empowering Youth and Future Voters' .
The observation was organized by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer.
As part of the observation, a photo exhibition on Systematic Voters' Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) campaign was also launched and android based mobile application for elector called 'e-Manipur Election' was also launched by Chief Secretary O Nabakishore.
Addressing at the function as the chief guest, O Nabakishore said voters' choice in electing their representatives in the upcoming 11th Manipur Legislative Assembly Election is very important.
Every voter should exercise their right given by the Indian Constitution as every aspect of the State depends on who "we choose to be our leaders or representatives" .
He added that voters should not be influenced by any means and at the same time, candidates should not try to lure voters by offering any form of cash or kind.
"Though the State is under the grasp of UNC's economic blockade, each and every department will be well co-ordinated to make sure that the election is conducted in a free and fair manner," said O Nabakishore.
The Chief Secretary also administered the 'National Voters' Day Pledge' apart from launching SVEEP comic book.
Prizes were also distributed to the winners of the longest painting competition held under different categories.
EPIC (Voter Card) for newly enrolled voters was also distributed.
Chief Electoral Officer Vivek Kumar Dwangan who attended the programme as the guest of honour emphasized the importance of observing National Voters' Day.
"Since 2011, January 25 is marked as the National Voters' Day to observe the foundation day of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
ECI was founded in 1950 as an autonomous Constitutional authority responsible for administering election processes in India.
Observing the day will encourage the younger generations to take part in the election process and exercise their franchise given by the Indian Constitution." He further said that SVEEP is an awareness programme focusing on young voters and welcoming them in electoral participation.
He added, "For the first time, voters in all the districts will be given EPIC (Voter Card)" .
Other speakers commented on the importance of all individuals including the intellectuals to vote and elect the right leaders.
Additional Chief Secretaries Dr J Suresh Babu, Shambu Singh, Director General of Police LM Khaute, Principal Secretary MH Khan, Additional CEO RK Dinesh, Joint CEO Hrisheekesh Modak and Inspector General of Police Lupheng Kailun attended as the guests of honour.
The National Voters' Day was also observed at DTC Hall near DC Office, Churachandpur.
Speaking at the occasion, Lunminthang Haokip, DEO, Churachandpur said, "The main aim of the observation is to create awareness among the young voters of the district on the importance of election.
It is the duty of every citizen to ensure the election is conducted in a free and fair manner." The programme was also attended by CEO/ADCC, ERO/Churachandpur, ERO/Saikot and Nodal Officers of Churachandpur district.
National Voters' Day was also observed at different pockets of Bishnupur, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Tamenglong and Thoubal district on the theme, "Empowering young and future voters" .
In the meantime, BLO Sagolshem Memcha under ERO/SDO Sawombung, distributed voter's cards to the people in a function held at Sabungkhok Primary School ground on the occasion of National Voters' Day.