Nagpur: The “Votathon” rally, organized to boost voter awareness, saw an enthusiastic response from Nagpur residents, who pledged to vote in the upcoming elections and inspire others to do the same here, on Saturday, November 9. Speaking at the event, Police Commissioner Dr. Ravinder Kumar Singal called on the youth to lead by example by fulfilling their voting duty and motivating neighbors and peers to exercise their democratic rights.
The prize distribution ceremony for the rally, held at Yashwant Stadium as part of the Election Commission’s Systematic Voter Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) initiative, saw participation from prominent figures including Municipal Commissioner Dr. Abhijit Chaudhary, District Collector and Election Officer Dr. Vipin Itankar, Additional Commissioner Anchal Goyal, and other officials.
“Voting is a national duty, and it is our collective responsibility to increase voter turnout to at least 75 percent. Every eligible citizen must play an active role,” emphasized Dr. Itankar. He also urged voters to confirm their polling stations with the local BLOs (Booth Level Officers).
Dr. Abhijit Chaudhary highlighted the excitement of the rally, stating that this enthusiasm should translate into action on Election Day. “As ambassadors of democracy, citizens should cast their votes and uphold democratic values,” he added.
At the start of the rally, Chief Executive Officer of the Zilla Parishad, Vinayak Mahamuni, led the participants in a pledge to vote. In unison, attendees affirmed their commitment to voting, sending a powerful message of civic responsibility.
Suvarna Raj, SVEEP icon and an athlete with disabilities, appreciated the facilities provided for senior and disabled voters, ensuring accessibility. Election observer Sunil Kumar expressed hopes for a record turnout in Nagpur, while observer Pawan Kumar Sinha encouraged maintaining the rally’s enthusiasm through Election Day.
The “Votathon” witnessed active participation from government and private sector officials, students, female cadets from the Police Training Center, senior citizens, and children. Senior athletes and young participants joined forces to emphasize the importance of voting. The Amit Sports Academy performed an inspiring yoga demonstration, encouraging citizens to vote, while fun games led by VJ Amol entertained attendees, with prizes awarded to winners by dignitaries.
Winners of the 5-Kilometer ‘Votathon’ Competition:
Women’s Category:
1st: Anjali Madavi
2nd: Rita Tarare
3rd: Suchita Wadame
4th: Nikita Sahu
5th: Ritu Madavi
Men’s Category:
1st: Gaurav Khadkatkar
2nd: Manish Pathe
3rd: Abhay Maske
4th: Rohit Rahangdale
5th: Mohit Kore
Children’s Category:
Boys: Saurabh Bhatt (7), Laksh Patel (8), Advit Bhosale (9)
Girls: Arya Takone (6), Navya Barai (10), Shravani Lasne (12)
Senior Citizens:
Divakar Bhoyar (79), Damodhar Wankhede (65), Santosh Tayde (47)
Women:
Mrs. Renu Sidhu (49)
Fancy Dress Winners:
Santoshi Dhoom, Divya Ghumne, Jeeva Suryawanshi, Rudra Takone
Winners received awards from prominent officials.
The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation Dr. Ranjana Lade, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Zilla Parishad Kapil Kalode, Additional Deputy CEO Dr. Kailas Ghodke, Social Welfare Assistant Commissioner Mrs. Sukeshini Telgote, District Sports Officer Mrs. Pallavi Dhatrak, and other district and municipal officials.
