By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The East Khasi Hills District Administration is all set to celebrate the National Voters’ Day on January 25 with various activities ahead of the main day in collaboration with the various traditional institutions in the city.
Ahead of the Assembly polls slated on February 23, the district administration has come up with new ideas to encourage and facilitate voters’ participation in the upcoming election.
Seeking the support and cooperation of the local Dorbar Shnong to further strengthen its efforts, Deputy Commissioner Sanjay Goyal on Monday held a meeting with the headmen of the various localities of the city as well as youth organizations besides others.
During the meeting, Goyal cited new set of activities to be carried out ahead of January 25 which included the recently concluded painting competition for children and youth of the district, essay writing competition on the topic ‘My Voice-My Vote’ to be held on Tuesday at the DC’s office and online quiz competition with 93.5 Red FM which has started since January 19 from 5pm to 7pm every day.
Besides the above, a procession known as the ‘Nights of 1000 lights’ will also be held on the eve of National Voters’ Day with the participation of various localities and the same will kick start from the respective localities at 4 pm and culminate at State Central Library at 5.30 pm.
Elaborating more on the procession, Additional District Magistrate (ADM) DM Wahlang said as the name of the procession suggests, residents of the various localities will be carrying either lighted Dongmusa (traditional torch) or candles.
“This is being done with a motive to ensure maximum participation in the upcoming elections and the procession will be held with an aim to inculcate a sense of responsibility among the people especially the youth,” Wahlang said.
After the groups assemble at State Central Library, a Phawar Competition and cultural programmes will follow suit. “The best phawar will be chosen by the administration as the ringtone to be used during the elections,” Wahlang added.
Goyal also informed that the district administration will be writing to the Superintendent of Police to make necessary arrangements to prevent any traffic congestion in the city during the procession.
Further, a big canvas will be placed at the premises of State Central Library allowing people to pen down their signatures as well as to scribble their thoughts and ideas for a better Meghalaya.