Assam Governor attends 16th National Voters’ Day Celebration
Stresses on the participation of voters of all sections to make Indian democracy stronger
Guwahati, Rongili Barta: Assam Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, attended the celebration of the 16th National Voters’ Day at NEDFi House, Dispur.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Shri Acharya said that National Voters’ Day is an extremely significant occasion for every voter in the country, as it inspires citizens to actively participate in the democratic process. Extending his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all voters of Assam, he described the day as a celebration of India’s vibrant democratic spirit.
The Governor noted that 25 January marks an extraordinary milestone in the history of Indian democracy, as the Election Commission of India was established on this day in 1950, a day before the Constitution of India came into force. He stated that the forefathers of the Constitution envisioned the Election Commission as a strong and independent constitutional institution to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.
Highlighting the importance of public participation, Shri Acharya said that the Constitution is the soul of Indian democracy and voters are its backbone. An aware, active, and responsible electorate, he emphasized, strengthens democratic institutions. He explained that the objective of celebrating National Voters’ Day is to spread awareness about voting rights, which is why the Election Commission has been observing its Foundation Day as National Voters’ Day every year since 2011.
Describing the Right to Vote as the greatest democratic gift, the Governor said that a single vote has the power to shape the present and future of the nation. He stressed that this power becomes meaningful only when exercised with wisdom, ethical judgment, and national interest in mind. Through a simple illustration, he explained how non-participation in voting suppresses the voice of the silent majority, whereas collective and thoughtful participation can decisively influence the nation’s direction.
Referring to this year’s National Voters’ Day theme, “My India, My Vote,” the Governor said the theme highlights both the right and responsibility of citizens in a democracy. He urged people not only to cast their own votes but also to motivate others to do so, particularly first-time voters, whom he described as the foundation of the country’s democratic future.
Quoting Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message to new voters from the Mann Ki Baat programme—“Your first vote is a vote of self-respect as well as dedication to the nation”—the Governor encouraged young voters to vote with awareness and wisdom and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
The Governor also expressed satisfaction over the growing participation of women, persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and marginalized sections in the electoral process. He said that the increasing participation of women reflects the inclusive and strengthened the character of Indian democracy, while accessible voting arrangements symbolize the country’s democratic maturity.
Praising the Election Commission of India, Shri Acharya said that conducting free, fair, and transparent elections in the world’s largest democracy is a formidable challenge, which the Commission has been fulfilling with dedication and credibility. He emphasized the importance of electoral rolls as the foundation of the electoral process and suggested that voter awareness campaigns should be conducted throughout the year, not just during election periods.
The Governor urged all youth and future voters to ensure timely registration in the electoral rolls and participate enthusiastically in every election.
The programme was attended by Chief Electoral Officer of Assam Anurag Goyal, District Commissioner of Kamrup Metro Swapnil Paul, Additional Chief Electoral Officer Damodar Barman, Assam State Icon for the Election Commission of India and para-cyclist Rakesh Banik, senior voters, members of the Election Literacy Club, and other distinguished dignitaries.