J&K: SVEEP campaign held at Jhelum riverfront to raise voter awareness ahead of assembly elections

The event, led by the District Election Officer, saw participation from students of various schools and colleges, contributing creatively to the initiative to educate voters about the electoral process.

The campaign featured a range of activities, including setting up a demo polling station where students demonstrated the voting process to the public. This hands-on approach helped people familiarise themselves with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and understand voter rights and responsibilities. Students used art, posters, and other engaging activities to capture public interest and spread the message about the importance of voting.

Speaking about the program, Hassan Sheikh, Additional District Development Commissioner, said, "As you know that voting is taking place here in September, so in connection with that, our SVEEP programs have been going on for the last month. The purpose is that all our voters should cast their vote on that day and vote for the candidate of their choice. This is the government of the common people, and they should come out and exercise their right."

Mir also called to attention the need for students and other participants to act as ambassadors within their families and neighbourhoods. "We expect these students and other participants to be ambassadors. They should go to their families, their neighbourhoods, and tell other people about this. Last year in Srinagar, there was a good turnout which was record-breaking, so we expect this time it will be wonderful," he added.

Mir then assured that the election process was progressing smoothly with all necessary arrangements being made. "All the stages that are notified today, that means randomization should happen, training should happen, everything is set, and according to the plan of action, every activity is happening on time. In terms of security, we are fully hopeful that everything will be fine," he said.

Students played a central role in the campaign, using their creativity to spread the message of voter awareness. Arshad Soliha, professor of Government College of Education, said"Our nodal officer is Professor Dr. Seema Naz, and she is also the Principal of Government College of Education. Under her patronage, we selected students from different colleges in Srinagar for a poster-making competition about the importance of voting."

Soliha also highlighted how various mediums, such as posters and slogans, help sensitise people about elections. "Today, this is the best medium for us through which we make posters, give slogans, write captions, and make people aware of how important elections are. There are many other activities from our college, including singing programs and plays, all organised along the banks of the Jhelum River. People come, see it, and become aware," he said.

The event not only attracted public interest but also underlined the role of students in encouraging electoral participation. The SVEEP campaign at the Jhelum Riverfront is a collaborative effort to strengthen the democratic process in Jammu and Kashmir, encouraging a sense of civic responsibility among both the younger generation and the broader community. (ANI)