BUDGAM: A Voters’ Fair (Matdata Mela) was today organised at Behisht-e-Zehra park Budgam under the directions of the District Election Officer (DEO) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat under the theme ‘Promoting Inclusive, Ethical, and Informed Voting’.
The event was coordinated by the District Administration Budgam in collaboration with District Nodal Officer SVEEP/ Chief Education Officer Budgam, Rifat Irfan Qadri, as part of the ongoing Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme.
The fair witnessed enthusiastic participation from young and first-time voters, female voters, senior citizens, and Persons with Disabilities (PwD), reflecting the ideals of inclusive and participatory democracy.
A series of engaging activities, awareness sessions, and demonstrations were conducted to educate the public about various aspects of the electoral process.
During the event, speakers emphasized the significance of every vote in shaping a strong democracy and urged participants to cast their votes responsibly. Awareness sessions were held on ethical voting, the role of each voter in ensuring fair elections, and the functioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems, ensuring that voters are fully informed about the voting process.
The event was graced by the presence of General Observer, Bhor Singh Yadav and Police Observer, Nachiketa Jha for 27-AC budgam bye-Elections, who appreciated the efforts of the District Administration for organizing such innovative and inclusive outreach initiatives under the SVEEP programme.
The Voters’ Fair was aimed to motivate maximum voter turnout in the upcoming bye-elections to the 27–Budgam Assembly Constituency, ensuring that every eligible citizen participates in the electoral process with awareness, confidence, and commitment.
The District administration reiterated that it remains fully committed in conducting free, fair, participative, and transparent elections, in line with the vision of the Election Commission of India.