“Every Vote Strengthens the Foundation of Democracy” – Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot

Bengaluru, Jan. 25:

The  Governor of Karnataka,  Thawar Chand Gehlot, called upon voters to exercise their right to vote freely and fairly, without fear, pressure or inducement, and to actively uphold democratic values.

At the 16th National Voters’ Day programme held in Bengaluru by the State Election Commission, the Governor addressed the gathering and presented the State-level Awards conferred by the Election Commission of India in recognition of outstanding electoral performance.

The Governor stated that National Voters’ Day is an occasion to reaffirm the importance, dignity and role of citizens in the democratic system guaranteed by the Constitution. He noted that India is the world’s largest democracy and that its strength is rooted in constitutional ideals and the active participation of every informed citizen. “One vote, one voice and one responsibility—this is the soul of democracy,” he said.

He emphasised that by granting voting rights to every eligible citizen, the Constitution has ensured that the supreme authority of governance rests with the people. Voting, he said, is not only a legal right but also a constitutional responsibility. Highlighting India’s inclusive and transparent electoral framework, the Governor observed that the strength of democracy lies in free, fair and transparent elections, supported by the active participation of all voters.

Describing voting as both a right and a duty, the Governor stated that every vote is an offering to the Republic. “Through voting, citizens contribute to governance, development priorities, social justice and the future of generations to come. Every vote thus strengthens the foundation of democracy,” he said.

Referring to electoral systems across the world, the Governor noted that India follows a direct electoral system. Stressing the role of youth in nation-building, he said that youth represent the strength, innovation and vision of the nation, and that even a single vote can bring about positive change. He called upon young voters to actively participate in democratic processes to build a strong and inclusive India.

The Governor further stated that fair elections are the hallmark of a robust democracy and urged newly registered voters to exercise their franchise responsibly, understand democratic values and become informed and conscientious citizens.

He said that National Voters’ Day inspires all of us to take a pledge to uphold the democratic values enshrined in the Constitution, to exercise our right to vote and encourage others to do the same, and to faithfully discharge our civic responsibilities towards the nation.

The Chief Electoral Officer,  Anbukumar, in his address, said that the 16th National Voters’ Day is being celebrated across the state. He stated that voters play a very important role in a democratic country.

He said that the Election Commission of India has designed several programmes to ensure smooth and inclusive voting. He further stated that every year on January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1, opportunities are provided for young voters, women, persons with disabilities, and other underprivileged sections to get their names included in the voters’ list.

He said that citizens have been provided with an opportunity to participate in the electoral process and to cast their votes in a proper and ethical manner. He also stated that through the organization of SVEEP programmes, extensive efforts are being made to create awareness among citizens about the importance of voting.

The Chief Commissioner of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), Maheshwar Rao, in his address, appreciated all the officers for their dedicated efforts and efficient performance in carrying out election-related work and advised them to continue discharging their duties with the same commitment. He also urged all young voters to ensure that they get their names included in the voters’ list and to participate in the voting process. He emphasized that every vote is important and should be exercised responsibly.

Administration of Voters’ Pledge:
As part of the National Voters’ Day celebrations, more than 1,000 people, including the officers/staff and students present in the auditorium, took the Voters’ Pledge.

Distribution of Awards to State-Level Award Winners:

For their outstanding performance in voter list revision and other election-related activities, the Hon’ble Governor presented awards to 5 District Election Officers (DEOs), 5 Additional District Election Officers (ADEOs), 5 Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), 5 Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), 1 Research Assistant from the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Karnataka, 10 Booth Level Officer (BLO) Supervisors, and 34 Booth Level Officers (BLOs). In addition, awards were also presented to a total of 9 students who won the State-level Kannada Essay Competition, including 3 students from High School level, 3 from Pre-University College level, and 3 from Degree College level. (List enclosed).

The programme was attended by the GBA Special Commissioner (Election) ) Shri R. Ramachandran, the award-winning District Election Officers, Assistant District Election Officers, the State SVEEP Nodal Officer P. N. Vastrad, the Additional Development Commissioner of the Bengaluru Central City Corporation, Daljit Kumar, Assistant Commissioners, other officials, and students.