Subhash Mahajan
Khajjiar
India, the world’s largest democracy, now has 1 billion registered voters, announced Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar during his visit to Chamba district. Addressing booth-level officers (BLOs), supervisors, and local voters at a special program held at Government Senior Secondary School, Khajjiar, he emphasized the crucial role of voter participation in strengthening democracy.
The Chief Election Commissioner noted that nearly 18 million people work with the Election Commission, including 1.2 million booth-level officers who serve as the backbone of the electoral process. He urged citizens, especially youth, to actively participate in every election and called on Chamba district voters to ensure a turnout of over 90% in future polls.
Interaction with Voters
During the program, Kumar interacted with BLOs and voters from different assembly constituencies, discussing voter turnout, polling station arrangements, and electoral processes. He also spoke with young voters Pallavi Sharma, Saif Ali, and Sahil, as well as women voters Surendri Devi and Sumna Devi, gathering their views and experiences on voting.
Later, he visited the historic Khaji Nag Temple and surrounding areas, appreciating the cultural heritage of Khajjiar.
Warm Welcome
Earlier, Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer Mukesh Repswal formally welcomed the Chief Election Commissioner with a traditional Chamba rumal, shawl, and cap. His wife, Mrs. Anuradha Kumar, was also honored with a shawl and cap.
Dignitaries Present
The event was attended by Additional Chief Election Commissioners Murari Lal and Neeraj Chandela, Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repswal, Superintendent of Police Vijay Saklani, Additional Deputy Commissioner Amit Mehra, SDM Priyanshu Khati, District Development Officer Tavindra Chinouria, and Tehsildar (Elections) Anup Dogra, along with other senior officials and staff.
