National Voters’ Day: Trust in democracy strengthened in J&K: Lt Governor Sinha

Jammu, Jan 25: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Sunday that trust in democracy had solidified and that democratic values resonate deeply in Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at the 16th National Voters’ Day celebrations in Jammu, he said that the unprecedented electoral participation in 2024 confirms that citizens view voting as a duty, not just a right.

LG Sinha, as per an official statement, called upon the officers to cultivate awareness among citizens regarding the profound power of their franchise and motivate them to exercise it with thoughtful prudence to become a true architect of a strong, fair, and flourishing India.

“Every ballot cast becomes foundational to our nation’s edifice. Thus, elections represent far more than present-day choices. They embody our sacred duty to posterity, to collective destiny, and to democratic resilience,” he said.

The LG said that the franchise reinforces accountability, transparency, and governmental responsiveness.

“I firmly believe a vote is the potent expression of citizen aspiration, conviction, and purpose. Jammu and Kashmir must never forget that democracy’s essence lies in this. Our collective will alone determines our nation’s path,” he said.

LG Sinha said that every vote holds the power to shape policies, institutions, and national direction.

“When exercised responsibly, the ballot becomes our most potent tool for determining the nation’s destiny,” he said.

“India, the world’s largest democracy, has reached remarkable heights while championing equality and harmony. Our democratic foundations are unmatched in depth and strength. Though many nations won freedom when we did, democracy has thrived most vigorously on Indian soil,” the LG said.

He congratulated the youth and citizens who, after decades, received their first complete opportunity to exercise their franchise.

LG Sinha also commended the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the Chief Electoral Office (CEO) of J&K for the 2024 Lok Sabha and J&K Legislative Assembly elections.

He also administered the National Voters’ Day pledge to the officials and the people.

The LG felicitated District Election Officers (DECs) from across J&K, senior officials of civil and Police administration, youth icons, and other stakeholder departments.

He also distributed Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPICs) among the new voters.

The celebrations were marked by enthralling performances by artists, members of social organisations, and youth and LG Sinha appreciated their creative depictions about the importance of voting.

The event also featured a video message from the Chief Election Commissioner of India, Gyanesh Kumar.

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo; Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat; Additional Chief Secretaries, Shaleen Kabra and Shailendra Kumar; Principal Secretary, Home, Chandraker Bharti; CEO J&K, Sanjeev Verma; Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, and Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, were also present on the occasion.