Vijayawada Chief Secretary Advocates for Compulsory Voter Enrollment to Fortify Democratic Foundations
In a significant address during the National Voters' Day celebrations held at Tummalapalli Kalakshetram in Vijayawada on Sunday, Chief Secretary K Vijayanand issued a compelling call to action for every eligible citizen. He urged mandatory enrollment as voters and active participation in the electoral process to substantially strengthen the democratic framework of the nation.
National Voters' Day: A Celebration of Democratic Participation
Attending as the chief guest, Vijayanand elaborated on the profound significance of National Voters' Day, which is observed annually on January 25. This date commemorates the establishment of the Election Commission of India in 1950, marking a pivotal moment in the country's democratic journey. The chief secretary emphasized that the primary objective of this day is to enhance citizens' engagement in the electoral process, with a special focus on encouraging youth participation and creating widespread awareness about their rights and responsibilities as voters.
This year, the awareness programmes are being conducted under the inspiring theme "My India, My Vote," which resonates with the collective responsibility of building a robust democracy.
Voting: A Solemn Duty Beyond a Mere Right
Vijayanand passionately articulated that voting transcends being merely a right; it is a solemn duty of every citizen. He underscored that each individual vote lays a strong and indispensable foundation for constructing a truly democratic India. As the world's largest democracy, India derives its immense strength from active public participation in the electoral process.
The chief secretary highlighted the continuous efforts of the Election Commission to ensure that every eligible citizen who attains 18 years of age is promptly enrolled as a voter and issued an EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card). He reiterated the Commission's unwavering commitment to conducting free, fair, and impartial elections, urging the youth to actively engage in both the voter registration process and the elections themselves.
Expanded Enrollment Opportunities and Essential Precautions
Chief Electoral Officer Vivek Yadav provided crucial updates on voter registration procedures. He explained that previously, January 1 alone was considered the qualifying date for voter registration. However, under the amended law, citizens who attain 18 years of age can now enrol as voters on four qualifying dates throughout the year: January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1. This expansion offers greater flexibility and accessibility for new voters.
New voters can apply either online or through the concerned Booth Level Officer (BLO), streamlining the registration process. Yadav also informed that voters can update their address conveniently through Form 8. He issued an important caution, noting that mere possession of an EPIC card does not guarantee voting rights. Voters must diligently ensure their names are included in the electoral rolls by checking the CEO website regularly.
To further promote youth participation, the Election Commission is organising comprehensive voter awareness programmes through Electoral Literacy Clubs in schools and colleges, fostering a culture of democratic engagement from an early age.
Recognition for Excellence in Electoral Management
During the celebrations, Nellore district collector Himanshu Shukla received a prestigious state-level award for effectively implementing superior electoral mapping during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. The award was presented by Chief Secretary Vijayanand, acknowledging the district's exemplary efforts.
Through efficient election management and the successful execution of high-quality electoral mapping under the Special Intensive Revision process, Nellore district secured an impressive 5th place at the state level. Speaking on the occasion, District Collector Shukla attributed this achievement to the coordinated and dedicated efforts of the entire district election machinery. He affirmed that the team would continue to work with the same spirit and commitment to achieve even better results in the future, setting a benchmark for electoral excellence.
The National Voters' Day event in Vijayawada thus served as a powerful platform to reinforce the critical importance of voter participation, celebrate democratic milestones, and recognize outstanding contributions to the electoral process, all aimed at fortifying India's democratic ethos.
