Cash prizes announced for lucky electors
SHILLONG: In its final bid to woo voters to come out and exercise their rights to franchise in the Lok Sabha elections on Wednesday, the State Election department has announced cash award of Rs.2000 each five lucky voters from each Assembly segment through a lucky draw contest.
The lucky winners will be informed on April 15.
The step has been taken to encourage voters to participate in the election process in view of the 12-hour bandh called by the proscribed HNLC.
Polling will start from 7 am and continue till 5 pm. The Government is also likely to arrange public transportation for voters to enable them reach their respective polling stations.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, State Chief Electoral Officer P Naik said that a total of 3082 polling parties have left for their respective polling stations. Naik also urged the voters to come out in large numbers and exercise their franchise.
Meanwhile, the East Khasi Hills district administration has made elaborate arrangements for a day out for voters and their families at the Lady Hydari Park on poll day.
A state holiday in view of the Lok Sabha elections coupled with the 12-hour bandh called by the HNLC meant that people were unlikely to have much to do once polling was over.
This led the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills, to line up a host of programmes for kids as well as youths on Wednesday which would offer a source of entertainment.
Besides a sit and draw competition on the theme of “Spirit of Election” and a game of musical chair, the traditional “Mawpoint” game will also be organised at the venue. Food and exhibition stalls will also be put up outside the Park.
A photography competition will also be organised as part of the initiative. Participants can take pictures of electors holding EPIC and the indelible ink mark.
In addition, top 10 model polling stations will be awarded attractive cash prizes. The polling stations will be judged by a team of officers on the parameters laid down by the Election Commission of India.
