Excelsior Correspondent
POONCH, Sept 12: To encourage first-time voters to exercise their franchise, General Election Observer Solai Bharathi Dasan and District Election Officer Vikas Kundal flagged off bike rally from Dak Bungalow, Poonch, to village Kanuyian, here today.
The rally, organized under the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative, saw hundreds of enthusiastic first-time voters participating with zeal. The Observers and DEO led from the front riding alongside the participants.
The rally traversed various roads and streets of Poonch town, culminating at village Kanuyian, with bikers holding placards and banners motivating fellow first-time voters to register and vote in the upcoming Assembly elections. The event aimed to create awareness about the importance of voting and the role of youth in shaping the country’s future.
District Election Officer, Vikas Kundal emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “This rally is part of our SVEEP initiative to educate and raise awareness among the public. Our goal is to ensure that every eligible citizen understands the power of their vote. It’s inspiring to see such a large turnout of first-time voters participating with enthusiasm.”
Atul Kumar Sharma, a first-time voter, shared his excitement: “As a young citizen, I feel it’s my responsibility to contribute to the country’s growth and development. Voting gives me a sense of empowerment, and I’m eager to have my say in shaping India’s future. I’m proud to be casting my vote for the first time, and I urge all my fellow first-time voters to register and vote. Let’s make our voices heard and create a positive change!”
The rally was organized in collaboration with local youth groups and educational institutions. The SVEEP initiative, launched by the Election Commission of India, aims to educate and encourage voters, especially first-time voters, to participate in the electoral process. The bike rally is one of many initiatives undertaken by the District Election Office, Poonch, to promote voter awareness and participation.
The rally was also attended by Tahir Mustafa Malik (ADC Poonch), Qadir ul Rehman (RO Haveli Constituency), Lal Hussain (CEO Poonch and Nodal Officer SVEEP) and other senior officers of the district.