Sudarsan Pattnaik in Odisha Crafts Sand Art to Encourage First-Time Voters

In anticipation of the upcoming Lok Sabha election, renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has crafted a captivating sand art installation on Puri’s beach to raise awareness among first-time voters. The intricate creation bears a crucial message, “Mera Pehla Vote Desh Ke Liye,” translating to ‘My first vote for the nation.’

On February 17, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar assessed the preparations for the Lok Sabha election in Odisha, expressing confidence in the state’s readiness to conduct both the 2024 Parliamentary and state assembly elections simultaneously.

“We are fully prepared to conduct the 2024 Parliamentary elections and state assembly elections. Every preparation is almost complete. I request all voters to come and participate in the festival of democracy, whether youths, women, or those staying in inaccessible areas,” Kumar declared during a press conference.

Addressing concerns raised by political parties in Odisha, Kumar acknowledged apprehensions regarding the neutrality of the state government machinery and the need for a “level-playing field.” Political parties emphasized the importance of maintaining government machinery neutrality to ensure fair elections. Furthermore, they sought equal access to facilities and entitlements provided to all political parties, such as grounds, vehicles, and loudspeakers.

Highlighting the issue of violence reported during the last assembly elections in Odisha, the CEC stressed the importance of an energized administration to prevent incidents of violence. Kumar urged the administration to be proactive and ensure a violence-free electoral process.

Acknowledging the significance of feedback from political parties, Kumar stated, “The feedback from political parties is important, as they are important stakeholders…they are the second interface between the voter and the Commission.”

The CEC shared key details about the election schedule in Odisha, indicating that the Vidhan Sabha elections will conclude by June 24, 2024, and the Parliamentary elections by June 16. Odisha comprises 147 assembly constituencies, including 33 reserved for Scheduled Tribes (STs).

Highlighting the demographic profile of voters, Kumar mentioned that there are 3.32 crore voters in the state, with 1.68 crore male voters, 1.64 crore female voters, and 3380 third-gender voters. Notably, there are 6.8 lakh very senior citizens and 9060 voters aged over 100 years.

Ensuring transparency in the electoral process, Kumar shared that 50% of polling stations will have webcasting facilities, covering 22,685 out of 37,809 polling stations. This measure aims to provide direct feed to the control room, allowing swift action in case of any irregularities.

Kumar emphasized inclusivity in the electoral process, revealing that 300 polling stations will be managed by persons with disabilities, and 700 booths will be handled by recently recruited young employees. This approach aims to empower youth, women, and persons with disabilities, ensuring their active involvement in the electoral process.

In conclusion, the Chief Election Commissioner reassured the public of the Election Commission’s commitment to fair and transparent elections, urging citizens to participate actively in the democratic process.