Shillong (Meghalaya), Jan 25 : The National Voters Day (NVD) 2023 was celebrated in Meghalaya today , January 25 2023.
The theme for NVD 2023 is ‘Nothing like Voting, I Vote for Sure’. As part of the celebrations, the Run for Sure, cycling, and vintage car rally was organised by the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Meghalaya. There are various categories for citizens above 18, and for those above 50 years for 21k, 10k, 5k, and 1k marathon. The Wheelchair Run was also conducted for males and females in all categories.
The official NVD programme was held at the Meghalaya Assembly Secretariat, here . It commenced with the flagging off of Wheels of Democracy by the Chief Guest and the Super Six – Democracy Canvas. The super six includes Transparent, Ethical Voting, Accessible, Inclusive, Participative, Free and Fair elections.
The Chief Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, D. P Wahlang was the Chief Guest of the occasion in the presence of the Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills District, S.C Sadhu, other Dignitaries, special invitees, officials of various Government departments, and students were also amongst the others present at the programme.
The welcome address was delivered by Addl. Chief Electoral Officer, Barnari Mawlong highlighting the importance of democracy as an integral part of the political fabric of India. He ensured that the right to vote gives equal status to all eligible citizens to vote and that status is strengthened by exercising the democratic process.
R. L. Blah, Secretary, Synjuk Ki Nongsynshar Shnong Ka Bri U Hynniewtrep (SNSBH) in his speech remarked that voting is not just a right but a civic duty. He stressed the right and responsibility of citizens to shape the country's future. Through voting, citizens ensure their voices are heard in choosing their leaders without compulsion. Reflecting on Meghalaya at 50, he stated that elections are the gateway of democracy and paved the future of the next generation and welfare of our beloved State.
In his speech, the Deputy Commissioner East Khasi Hills District, S. C Sadhu highlighted the significance of the NVD 2023 celebrations assuming more importance as Meghalaya is going for polls on Feb 27 next . He acknowledged the role of newly enrolled voters and the role of voters collectively in achieving a healthy and participative democracy. He spoke at length about the festival of democracy that facilitates civic responsibilities. Based on the theme of this year’s NVD, various activities such as democracy run, cycle rally, and vintage car rally have been organised. In addition, easy registration for all eligible voters, and Assured Minimum Facilities (AMFs) at the polling stations are undertaken to make polling stations accessible to PWDs for better participation of voters.
The address by the Chief Electoral Officer, Meghalaya, F R Kharkongor highlighted the importance of voting for the upcoming 2023 assembly elections in February. He stated that NVD is observed all over the country to celebrate the democratic process. It epitomizes the resolve to ensure elections are participative, inclusive, and voter-friendly. The theme for this year’s NVD, ‘Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure’ emphasizes the individual and the civic duty to vote. In describing the NVD logo for 2023, he described the ‘tick mark’ sign as a symbol of informed decision-making by the voter, the Chakra symbolises the largest democracy in the world and the finger symbolizes the right of eligible citizens to participate in the democratic process.
In the 1950s, the Election Commission had started out on uncharted territory with a non- existent electoral roll. He gave an example of the first Chief Election Commissioner who undertook the task to ensure a largely illiterate population went to the polling stations to exercise the democratic right to vote. Now, various technological interventions have sharpened the electoral processes and deepened democracy.
He addressed the audience on the importance of the voting pledge and urged the citizens to come out like soldiers of democracy and elect their leader.
As the Chief Guest, the Chief Secretary of Meghalaya, D. P Wahlang spoke on the power of citizens for the free and fair right to vote. Pointing to the statistics, the total number of voters in the State is 21,11,214 whereby the number of male voters is 10,43,194 and that of Female voters is 10,68,018. Interestingly, there are 290 voters above 100 years, 22658 voters above 80 years, and 82443 first-time voters which is about 4% of the total number of voters.
Elections today have become a culmination of entitlement, rights, and duty. The Election Commission (EC) has expanded its efforts to increase voter turnout over the years by citing AMF as a priority.
He applauded the efforts taken by the administration to sensitize young voters not only to enrol but to cast their votes. In the process, several challenges were faced with respect to ensuring 100% Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF). Nonetheless, the intensive work by all concerned could result in a free, fair, and successful election. Vote for candidates of their choice. Facilities are created for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to ensure they have the opportunity to vote, and braille ballot papers are provided to ensure inclusive voting. The aim is to overtake the 86.6% voter turn in the 2018 assembly elections out and cross the threshold of 95%.
He concluded the speech with a remark on the main purpose of celebrating NVD is to sensitise and create awareness among the voters.
The event showcased a special performance of Sare Jahan Se Accha on the Saxophone. The song is a reminder of the freedom struggle and represents notes of democracy. There was also an ensemble performance. It is a re-imagination of fashion in civil society by synthesizing cultural and social sensitivities which are largely represented in the importance of the role of women and the differently abled in society. The choreography of the Light After Dark Music video was performed. It carried a message on the importance of democracy and the participation of the citizens in the political process. In the same vein, democracy also grants us the freedom to choose and exercise our right to vote through enrolment thus, reminding us of the power that one vote holds.
The Chief Guest released the “I Vote for Sure” music video, Knowledge Attitude Practice (KAP) Report and Super Six Photo Booklet. They capture the essence of elections in Meghalaya and encourage citizens to vote.
There was also a distribution of EPICs for the newly registered voters.
