The district administration under the SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation) campaign has intensified voters’ awareness programme throughout the district of Dima Hasao to familiarize people with voting machines-electronic voting machine (EVM) and voter verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT), according to a press release by Janasanyog (Hills) Assam district information and public relation officer, Haflong.
Deputy commissioner cum district election officer, Amitabh Rajkhowa, has also appealed to the people of Dima Hasao to participate in this election by coming out in large numbers and exercise their right to vote.
In his appeal, the district election officer (DEO) has tried to inspire all to cast their vote for welfare of the country.
The appeal is being widely publicized through All India Radio and installed loud speakers and through mics in Haflong and Maibang.
Various activities such as mock programmes, detail demonstration, distribution of leaflets in local languages, posters and road shows are being organized in Haflong as well as other parts of the district, as stated in the press release.
Two permanent demonstration booths have been set up at the deputy commissioner’s office and near the treasury office at the NRC centre.
Under the SVEEP programme, students at schools and colleges are also being sensitized.
The Electoral Literacy Club (ELC) set up in school and college level acts as a platform to engage school students through interesting activities and hands-on experience to make them aware on their electoral rights and familiarize them with the electoral process of registration and voting.
A team of SVEEP officials under the nodal officer Zagir Khan have been carrying out extensive mock programmes to give out training on EVM and VVPAT around every nook and corner in the district.
The team has covered awareness campaigns in areas like Mahur, Maibang, Langting, Dihangi, Diyungbra, Umrangso, Retzol and Harangajao.
Special emphasis has also been given on those polling stations where the total voters turn-out was less than 10% in last election.
So far, total mock votes cast during the mock programmes are approximately 11,500.