Special Guest Thavaseelan K, officials from the Election Department headed by CEO Nagaland Vyasan R, other dignitaries, awardees, and first-time voters during the State-level 15th National Voters’ Day event at Patkai Christian College (Autonomous) on January 25. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Patkai | January 25
The importance of active participation in the electoral process and exercising voting rights with integrity to strengthen democracy emerged as a key takeaway as Nagaland joined the nation in celebrating the 15th National Voters’ Day (NVD) on January 25.
The State-level 15th NVD event was held at Patkai Christian College (Autonomous) under the theme, “Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure,” where Nagaland Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Vyasan R administered the NVD Pledge, emphasising the need to uphold democratic traditions and the dignity of free, fair, and peaceful elections.
An essential aspect of the event was raising awareness about the importance of voting, particularly among young voters.
In tune with the day, Special Guest Thavaseelan K, Principal Director of School Education, Nagaland, provided insights into the magnitude of India’s electoral exercise, contemporary challenges, and related issues.
Highlighting the scale of elections, Thavaseelan noted that the Indian parliamentary election is considered the largest peacetime mobilisation of resources. He informed that Indian voters now number over 99 crore, almost three times the population of the United States, and that over 64.64 crore voters participated in the General Elections to the 18th Lok Sabha held from April 19 to June 1, 2024.
“For the first time, the women’s voter turnout exceeded that of men, and there was almost a 46% increase in the registration of electors,” he remarked, adding, “If one looks at the numbers, it just leaves you in awe.”
Thavaseelan commended the efforts of all departments working alongside the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure the seamless conduct of elections. He also lauded the foresight of the Constituent Assembly, which, in the 1940s, created the Election Commission of India as an impartial, independent, robust, transparent, and functional institution.
He highlighted how much effort goes into maintaining the electoral process, increasing respect for the institution and reminding citizens of their duty to exercise their right to vote. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he stated, “The true source of rights is duty. If we all discharge our duties, rights will not be far to seek. If leaving duties unperformed we run after rights, they will escape us like a will-o’-wisp…”
Thavaseelan also spoke on the critical importance of elections and the right to vote in an era dominated by social media, misinformation, and cybersecurity challenges. He addressed issues such as algorithms hardening viewpoints, deepfakes spreading false narratives, and foreign interference in elections, underscoring the significance of electoral outcomes in shaping a nation’s destiny.
Similarly, Thavaseelan elaborated on the concept of inversion philosophy, explaining that identifying what one seeks to avoid—such as poor leadership or detrimental policies—helps clarify aspirations for good governance and strong democratic values.
Recognising the adverse consequences of voter apathy or uninformed decision-making, he asserted, enables individuals to vote with purpose, ensuring their participation contributes to building a better future.
Citing the recent election and inauguration of a new President in the United States, he illustrated how individual actions, like voting, have a profound impact. He emphasised that voter apathy or poor decision-making can lead to negative outcomes, urging individuals to act intentionally to contribute to a better future.
The Principal Director reiterated the importance of participation, particularly among the youth, and called for empowering marginalised groups, including persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and third-gender individuals. He urged young voters to motivate their families to participate in elections and foster a culture of active citizenship.
“Every vote is a testament to our commitment to democracy. Let’s ensure we uphold this responsibility for the good of all,” he exhorted.
Deputy Commissioner and District Electoral Officer of Chümoukedima, Polan John, also highlighted the vital role of young voters in strengthening democracy by encouraging eligible young voters to vote, motivating first-time voters, and empower the young minds to take part in the democratic process.
Dr Rudowhelie Peseyie, Vice Principal of Patkai Christian College, also emphasised the power of voting and urged young voters to exercise their franchise consciously and ethically. He also gave a brief history of the college.
“The nation’s future is in safe hands when the youth understand the value of voting and take responsibility in choosing their leaders wisely,” CEO Nagaland Vyasan stated.
He further highlighted the extensive preparations undertaken by the Election Department to ensure smooth elections, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of various departments and the crucial roles played by teachers and police personnel in the process.
Vyasan also led the gathering in administering the NVD Pledge, which stated:“We the citizens of India, having abiding faith in democracy, hereby pledge to uphold the democratic traditions of our country and the dignity of free, fair, and peaceful elections, and to vote in every election fearlessly and without being influenced by considerations of religion, race, caste, community, language, or any inducement.”
The event also showcased glimpses of the Election Department in Nagaland as well as video message from ECI official Rajiv Kumar.
It also featured a song by Otto Yepthomi, winner of an online Solo Singing Contest on voting as well as the Electoral Literacy Club (ELC) PCC.
The special guest also felicitated key functionaries and performer as well as first-time voters.
