Dimapur, Feb. 23 (EMN): Central Bureau of Communication, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Field Office, Kohima, conducted an integrated communication and outreach programme on Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) at St. Xavier College and Navodaya Vidyalaya in Jaluki town under Peren district on February 21.
Addressing the students, the resource person and district-level master trainer, Zekope Thele, stated that the future lies in the hands of the youth and called them to contribute towards nation-building by participating in the electoral process and electing responsible and right leaders. He informed that the main objective of SVEEP was to facilitate the electorates, especially the first-time voters in the electoral process, stated a DIPR report.
According to Thele, SVEEP is a flagship programme of the Election Commission of India (ECI) with the purpose to educate, create awareness and promote voters literacy in the country. He said it is a multi-intervention programme aimed at reaching out to every citizen about the electoral process through various modes and mediums to promote informed participation in the polling process.
He said SVEEP is designed according to the socio-economic, cultural, and demographic profile of the state as well as the history of election participation in the various states. He also made a detailed presentation on the model code of conduct, polling process, and usage of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and voter verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT).
Besides, Thele also educated the young voters on the registration of votes and the alternative documents they should provide for proving their identity in case they do not possess an EPIC. Stressing on the right to secrecy of voting, Thele said no one should force a person to vote for a particular candidate.
Appealing to the young voters to refrain from being tempted by various inducements, he stated that when they sell their votes, they are selling their rights. He cautioned the students against proxy voting and said when someone voted for someone else, they are taking away the rights of that particular person to vote.
He further informed the students about the c-Vigil App and said they could upload any reports about violations of the MCC. Thele assured the voters that their identity would not be exposed and remained anonymous and encouraged the young citizens to be vigilant against any misconduct.
Later, a similar programme was also organised at Navodaya Vidyalaya in Jalukie town, wherein Thele briefed the students about the electoral process of the country. Report stated that the Private Registered Troup (PRT) of the Central Bureau of Communication performed various arts as an added attraction to the programme.