Majuli launches EVM awareness drive ahead of assembly polls

Dibrugarh: In a move to ensure transparency and boost voter confidence ahead of the upcoming Assam assembly elections, Majuli district administration officially launched an extensive electronic voting machine (EVM) and voter verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) awareness campaign on Friday.The initiative aims to demystify the voting process and encourage maximum civic participation across the river island.The campaign was ceremoniously kicked off by Majuli district commissioner Ratul Chandra Pathak, who flagged off a dedicated mobile demonstration van from the DC’s office. The van is designed to serve as a classroom on wheels, traveling to the furthest reaches of the district to educate the electorate.

Simultaneously, a permanent ‘EVM Demonstration Centre’ was inaugurated at the DC office, providing a stationary point for citizens to walk in and clarify their doubts regarding the digital voting infrastructure.Speaking at the inaugural event, Pathak said, “Our primary objective is to ensure that every single voter feels empowered and confident when they step into the polling booth. By bringing these machines directly to the doorsteps of the people, we are building a foundation of absolute trust in the electoral system.”

The awareness drive is strategically planned to cover every nook and cranny of Majuli. The mobile unit will visit every designated polling station, busy residential neighbourhoods, and bustling marketplaces. The hands-on approach allows voters to physically cast mock votes on the EVM and witness the VVPAT slip generation, confirming that their vote has been recorded accurately for their chosen candidate.“We urge every conscious citizen to take a few minutes out of their day to engage with our demonstration teams. Whether you are a first-time voter or a seasoned elector, seeing the VVPAT confirmation firsthand provides a level of assurance that is vital for a healthy democracy,” the DC added.