Vote holds power to shape policies, institutions, national direction: Sinha

Jammu, Jan 25: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, graced the 16th National Voters’ Day celebrations Sunday in Jammu.
Speaking on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor called upon the officers to cultivate awareness among citizens regarding profound power of their franchise and motivate them to exercise it with thoughtful prudence to become a true architect of a strong, fair and flourishing India.
“Every ballot cast becomes foundational to our nation’s edifice. Thus, elections represent far more than present-day choices- they embody our sacred duty to posterity, to collective destiny, and to democratic resilience.
The franchise reinforces accountability, transparency, and governmental responsiveness. I firmly believe a vote is the potent expression of citizen aspiration, conviction, and purpose. Jammu and Kashmir must never forget: democracy’s essence lies in this-our collective will alone determine our nation’s path,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted that every vote holds the power to shape policies, institutions, and national direction. He said, when exercised responsibly, the ballot becomes our most potent tool for determining the nation’s destiny.
“India, the world’s largest democracy, has reached remarkable heights while championing equality and harmony. Our democratic foundations are unmatched in depth and strength. Though many nations won freedom when we did, democracy has thrived most vigorously on Indian soil,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor congratulated youth and citizens who, after decades, received their first complete opportunity to exercise their franchise.
He also commended the Election Commission of India and the Chief Electoral Office of J&K for historic 2024 Lok Sabha and J&K Legislative Assembly elections.
“In Jammu Kashmir, trust in democracy has solidified and democratic values resonate deeply. Unprecedented electoral participation in 2024 confirms that citizens view voting as a duty, not mere right,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor administered the National Voters’ Day pledge to the officials and the people.
The Lieutenant Governor felicitated District Election Officers from across J&K, senior officials of Civil and Police administration, Youth icons and other stakeholder departments. He also distributed Electors Photo Identity Cards among the new voters.
The celebrations were marked by enthralling performances from artists, members of social organisations and youth. Their creative depictions of the importance of voting received special appreciation from the Lieutenant Governor.
The event also featured a video message from the Chief Election Commissioner of India, Gyanesh Kumar.
Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Nalin Prabhat, DGP; Shaleen Kabra and Shailendra Kumar – Additional Chief Secretaries; Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary, Home; Sanjeev Verma, Chief Electoral Officer J&K; Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP, Jammu; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; senior officials of Police and civil administration; prominent citizens and youth in large number were present.