Collector calls for full participation among first-time voters in Coimbatore

Stressing that every vote is important and urging first-time voters to ensure 100% participation, District Election Officer and Collector Pavankumar G. Giriyappanavar on Wednesday called upon youth to take an active role in election awareness and encourage eligible family members to cast their votes.

The remarks were made during Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) activities conducted at Nirmala College, Sungam, in Coimbatore city in view of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections scheduled for April 23.

He said first-time voters should not assume that their vote would not make a difference and stressed that every vote carries equal value. He urged students to ensure full participation and to spread awareness among peers and families.

A model polling station was set up on the campus to familiarise first-time voters with the voting process and provide hands-on experience.

A signature campaign on the theme “I pledge to vote” was conducted. Students took a pledge to participate in elections without being influenced by religion, caste, race, community, language or any inducement.

Cultural performances and a rangoli competition were organised as part of the awareness drive.

Coimbatore Corporation Commissioner M. Sivaguru Prabakaran and Additional Collector (Development) Sanket Balwant Waghe were present.