Shillong, 25th January : Meghalaya observed the 15th National Voters’ Day today with a grand event in the state capital, Shillong. The day was marked by spirited participation, including a record-breaking Democracy Run, a photo exhibition, and powerful speeches, emphasizing the state’s deep-rooted connection to democratic principles.
The Governor of Meghalaya, C.H. Vijayashankar, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, accompanied by Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang, who served as the Guest of Honour. The theme for this year’s event, ‘Nothing like voting, I vote for sure,’ underscored the importance of active voter participation.
Kicking off the celebrations, Meghalaya’s Chief Electoral Officer, Dr. BDR Tiwari, flagged off the Democracy Run, which saw over 1,000 participants, including children and the elderly. This marked a record-breaking turnout for the event in the state’s history. The run included 1km, 5km, and 10km categories, as well as a wheelchair race, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, could engage in the democratic spirit.
As part of the celebrations, the Chief Guest inaugurated a photo exhibition titled ‘Vote for Sure’. The exhibition, which depicted the electoral journey of the previous year’s Lok Sabha election in Meghalaya, highlighted key aspects such as home voting, clean & green elections, and inclusivity in the electoral process. The Governor took time to discuss the significance of the photographs, reflecting on the state’s electoral ethos.
The official function was filled with meaningful addresses from dignitaries. Governor Vijayashankar praised the Election Commission of India (ECI) for its success in conducting the world’s largest elections, noting Meghalaya’s strong commitment to democratic values. “Meghalaya is known not only for its breathtaking landscape and vibrant culture but also for its dedication to democratic principles,” he said.
Guest of Honour D.P. Wahlang acknowledged the Herculean efforts of the ECI in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections. He also highlighted the commission’s attention to voter accessibility, including provisions for physically challenged citizens at polling stations.
Chief Electoral Officer Dr. Tiwari took pride in Meghalaya’s impressive voter turnout, which surpassed the national average. “Our state’s increasing voter participation is a cause for celebration,” he remarked.
Secretary of the Ka Synjuk ki Nongsynshar Shnong ka Bri Hynniewtrep (SNSBH), R.L. Blah, underscored the critical role of citizens in shaping the future through elections, emphasizing the importance of an informed and engaged electorate.
Prizes were distributed to the winners of the Democracy Run, alongside youth-centric contests in collaboration with the Meghalaya Model United Nations. The day also saw the release of three important books, including ‘Lok Sabha 2024 – Meghalaya’s Journey to the Ballot’ and ‘Endline Survey of Knowledge, Attitude, Practice (KAP) of Citizens’.
The function featured two captivating musical performances. Batlador Khongnoh played the patriotic song ‘Sare Jahan Se Atcha’ on the traditional Khasi flute, while the folk band Na U Bnai performed the official Lok Sabha theme song, leaving the audience in awe.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Deputy Commissioner R. Kurbah, followed by students from Shillong Public School leading the crowd in the National Anthem, marking a fitting end to a day dedicated to celebrating democracy in Meghalaya.
The 15th National Voters’ Day served as a reminder of the critical role each citizen plays in upholding democratic values and the importance of active participation in the electoral process.
