Shillong, Jan 23: The 16th National Voters’ Day was celebrated across the State today on the theme ‘My India, My Vote (Citizen at the Heart of Indian Democracy)’.
As part of the celebrations, a ‘Run for Democracy’ was conducted by the office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (Election) of Amlarem civil sub-division in which 43 runners from different age categories participated. The painting and essay writing competitions were held yesterday with participation from students and community members.
The formal programme was chaired by Kavery Rabha, Assistant Commissioner, who delivered the welcome address and also led the gathering in taking the Voters’ Pledge, reaffirming commitment to uphold democratic values and to vote freely, fairly and ethically.
The chief guest, Vevotolu Kezo, Sub-Divisional Officer (Election) of Amlarem, emphasised that the strength of democracy lies in the active participation of citizens and encouraged everyone not only to vote but also to motivate others to register and participate in elections.
During the programme, voter ID cards were distributed to new electors, followed by the distribution of prizes to winners of the ‘Run for Democracy’, painting and essay competitions.
In East Jaintia Hills, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner (Elections) in collaboration with the Office of the District Sports Officer organized a ‘National Voters’ Day Run’.
The 10 Km run was flagged by Additional Deputy Commissioner S.R Marak in the presence of Assistant Commissioner E.A Sangma, Assistant Commissioner, E.D Shira, officials from Sports Department and other stakeholders.
The run witnessed the enthusiastic participation of both male and female participants, including senior citizens and children who are under 10 years.
Winners of the marathon were awarded cash prizes along with certificates in both male and female categories.
An inter-school quiz competition and slogan competition were organised in Mawkyrwat by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner (Election), South West Khasi Hills District on the theme.
The formal programme included the Voters’ Pledge, which was administered by I. Lawrniang, Assistant Commissioner.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (Election) F. B. Basan highlighted the importance of the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) and encouraged citizen not only to vote but also to motivate others to register and actively participate in the electoral process.
In South Garo Hills, the District Election Office felicitated the oldest and the first time voters.
Deputy Commissioner Sumit Kumar Singh in his address urged voters to participate actively in the upcoming Garo Hills Autonomous District Council election and choose the right candidate.
As part of the celebration a marathon was conducted in the morning at District Sports Playground.
