Bandipora, January 25:
The 16th National Voters’ Day–2026 was celebrated with enthusiasm across Bandipora district under the theme “My India, My Vote,” with the main function held at the Auditorium Hall of N.M. Higher Secondary School, Kaloosa.
The main event was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, and attended by Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR) Shabir Ahmad Wani, Deputy District Election Officer Er. Hilal Ahmad, Nodal Officer SVEEP, district and sectoral officers, youth, and students.
The programme commenced with the administration of the National Voters’ Day Pledge, reaffirming collective commitment towards upholding democratic values and ensuring informed participation in the electoral process.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner described National Voters’ Day as a celebration of democracy and an important platform to motivate youth and first-time voters to actively participate in elections. She appreciated the dedicated efforts of Booth Level Officers (BLOs), Anganwadi workers, and election staff in ensuring free, fair, and transparent electoral processes.
Speaking on the occasion, ACR Bandipora emphasized the role of electoral literacy in strengthening democracy and shared district-level statistics related to voter registration, electoral rolls, and election management, stressing the need for continuous awareness regarding voting rights and procedures.
The event featured a series of awareness and cultural activities, including student speeches highlighting the importance of voting, a skit titled “My India, My Vote” presented by students of BHSS Bandipora, a patriotic song by Mohammad Iqbal Lone, and screening of a documentary showcasing the District Administration’s initiatives on voter awareness, electoral literacy, and summary revision campaigns.
On the occasion, Electors Photo Identity Cards (EPICs) were distributed among newly registered voters, while mementos were presented to BLOs and officers in recognition of their commendable contribution to election-related duties.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Deputy Chief Education Officer Dr. G.M. Pujoo highlighted the significance of National Voters’ Day in nurturing informed, aware, and responsible citizens. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the Deputy District Election Officer.
Meanwhile, National Voters’ Day was also observed at Dak Banglow Sumbal, where Electoral Registration Officer Murtaza Ahmad Sheikh emphasized achieving 100 percent EPIC coverage, transparent electoral registration, and enhanced voter participation. EPICs were distributed to newly enrolled voters, followed by administration of the Voters’ Pledge.
Similarly, the day was celebrated at Sub Division Gurez under the leadership of SDM Gurez Mukhtar Ahmad, focusing on voter awareness and democratic participation. Speakers highlighted the importance of every vote, especially among youth and first-time voters, and administered the Voters’ Pledge to reaffirm commitment to democratic values.
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