MASROOR AHMAD
SRINAGAR: In a coordinated effort to promote voter awareness and participation in the electoral process, the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) has launched a series of special voter enrolment and electoral participation (SVEEP) programs across the Kashmir Valley.
The initiative aims to educate and mobilize the populace, particularly women, to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
According to a senior ICDS official, numerous SVEEP programs have been organized at various locations, including a recent event at Townhall Handwara, where hundreds of ICDS workers clad in pink attire actively participated. During these sessions, attendees were urged not only to visit their homes and spread information about voting but they were also enlightened about the significance of their vote in shaping the democratic process.
The pivotal role of these ICDS workers as “pink ambassadors” was underscored by the official, highlighting their important task of educating and mobilizing their communities. The success of these initiatives has been evident, with positive responses and increased awareness witnessed among the populace.
ICDS worker Masarat Nissar, expressed satisfaction with the Election Commission of India’s decision to establish separate polling stations for women, which she hailed as a significant step towards promoting gender inclusivity in the electoral process. She highlighted the historical struggle for women’s suffrage, highlighting the importance of not squandering this hard-earned right.
“We have no right to waste our votes,” she asserted, highlighting the responsibility of every citizen, regardless of gender, to participate in the democratic process. She underscored the equality between men and women in today’s society, stressing the need for equal participation in shaping the nation’s future.
The SVEEP programmes, ongoing for the past two months, have been instrumental in fostering a culture of informed and active citizenship throughout the Kashmir Valley. With a focus on achieving a robust voter turnout, these initiatives serve as a cornerstone in promoting democratic values and empowering particularly women to actively engage in the electoral process.