Commemorating the foundation day of the Election Commission of India, National Voters Day was observed in Meghalaya today.
The theme for this year was “Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure.”
The programme in Shillong was organised by the office of the Chief Electoral Officer of Meghalaya, and was held at U Soso Tham auditorium.
Governor Chandrashekhar H Vijayashankar was the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor highlighted Meghalaya’s unique democratic ethos, deeply rooted in its indigenous traditions. He praised the participatory governance systems of the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia communities, which resonate with the core values of democracy.
He lauded the Election Commission of India and the State Election Department for their efforts in conducting free, fair, and transparent elections, particularly during the 18th Lok Sabha elections in 2024, which witnessed a record-breaking voter turnout of 76.61 per cent.
The program reaffirmed the commitment of the people of Meghalaya to democratic values and the pivotal role of every voter in strengthening the foundation of the republic.
In North Garo Hills, the celebration was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s conference hall in Resubelpara.
Addressing the gathering, Assistant Deputy Commissioner (Election) TM G Momin said the objective was to encourage voters, especially the young voters, to exercise their right to vote ethically and responsibly.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Leena Daring led the gathering in taking the voters’ pledge and highlighted the role of women in the political participation of a progressive country.
The celebration was marked by distribution of EPICs to the newly registered voters of the district and presentation of patriotic song by the staff of the district administration.
In East Jaintia Hills, the day was celebrated with a 10 km open marathon organised by the office of the Deputy Commissioner in collaboration with the office of the District Sports Office.
The marathon was flagged off by Additional Deputy Commissioner S.R Marak in the presence of other officials of the district.
In the male category Knerlang Phawa won the first prize, Bismo Sumer bagged the second prize while the third prize was bagged by Rishan Meki Ryngkhlem.
In the female category, Phyrnai Kyndait secured the first prize, while Rosy Sana and Wasaki Phawa bagged the second and third prizes respectively.
The first prize winners took home a cash prize of Rs. 5000, second prize Rs. 3000, third prize Rs. 1500.
