DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
BANDIPORA, Sept 28
The District Election Officer (DEO) Bandipora, Manzoor Ahmad Qadri on Saturday presided over a mega SVEEP culmination ceremony at the Auditorium of Higher Secondary School Kaloosa. The event featured various cultural performances aimed at enhancing voter awareness. In his address, DEO commended the SVEEP team for their dedication in conducting awareness programmes throughout the district.
He acknowledged the contribution of Brand Ambassadors, the Education Department, Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, and others involved in the electoral process.
The DEO expressed hope for increased voter turnout in the upcoming assembly elections on October 1, owing to the persistent efforts of the SVEEP cell and other stakeholders.
Qadri urged all eligible voters to participate in the “festival of democracy,” cast their votes, and ensure their voices are heard. He emphasized that voting is not just a right but a crucial element of democracy, encouraging civic participation.
During the ceremony, first-time voters were presented with invitation cards to motivate them to engage in the voting process.
On the occasion, Deputy DEO Mohammad Rafeeq Bhat spoke about the importance of SVEEP activities in generating awareness and highlighting the role of voters in the electoral process. He emphasized that engaging the youth and first-time voters is vital for shaping the future of democracy, and encouraged attendees to not only vote but also influence their peers to participate, fostering a sense of collective responsibility toward civic engagement. Brand Ambassador, Nazir Ahmad echoed these sentiments, urging everyone to cast their votes on October 1. The programme was also attended by CEO/Nodal Officer for Manpower and Training Kishor Kumar, District Information Officer Aadil Manzoor Wani, DyCEO/Nodal Officer SVEEP Dr. G. M. Pujoo, Nodal Officer SVEEP for Bandipora AC Ab. Rashid Lone, Brand Ambassador for SVEEP activities Shaheena Begum (popularly known as Lakhpati Didi), SVEEP Coordinators Mir Irfan Maqbool and Arsalan Habib, BLOs, Anganwadi workers, first-time voters, and other concerned individuals.
