A voter awareness program under the Systematic Voter’s Awareness and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative was organized at Pratap Park in Srinagar on Sunday. The event aimed to educate the public about the importance of voting and provide essential information regarding the electoral process.
Sapna Kotwal, media nodal officer for SVEEP, told ANI that the program’s goal is to raise awareness about voting and ensure that citizens are well-informed about their voting rights. “These SVEEP programs are being conducted across Jammu and Kashmir by district election officers, following the guidelines of the Election Commission,” Kotwal said, adding that voters facing any issues can call the 950 toll-free number for assistance.
Earlier this week, another SVEEP event was held at the Jhelum Riverfront in Srinagar, led by the District Election Officer. Students from various schools and colleges participated in the campaign, using creative methods like art, posters, and demonstrations to engage the public. A demo polling station was set up, allowing citizens to familiarize themselves with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and learn about voter rights and responsibilities.
Hassan Sheikh, Additional District Development Commissioner, emphasized the importance of voter participation, stating, “Our SVEEP programs have been running for the past month to ensure that all voters cast their vote on election day and select the candidate of their choice. This is a government of the common people, and they should exercise their right.”
The upcoming Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections are scheduled for September 18, September 25, and October 1, with counting to take place on October 8. According to the Election Commission of India, the region has 88.06 lakh eligible electors. In the previous Assembly elections, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) won 28 seats, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured 25, the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) won 15, and Congress won 12.