With the Lok Sabha polls looming on June 1 in Punjab, authorities are rolling out creative campaigns to invigorate voter participation across the State. From traditional beats to modern mascots, a colorful array of strategies aimed to empower citizens and strengthen democracy.
In the heart of Hoshiarpur, a dedicated nodal officer is taking to the streets with a rhythmic twist. Armed with a dafli (tambourine), a traditional drum, he traverses the town, his beats echoing through bustling markets and quiet alleyways alike. Whether on foot, aboard buses, or even amidst the rhythmic sway of train carriages, his mission remained singular: to stir the civic spirit and urge voters to mark their ballots on polling day.
Not to be outdone, the ancient city of Malerkotla has unveiled its own electoral emissary: ‘Samajhdaar Begum’, a vibrant mascot, to educate and empower voters, especially the youth and women, ensuring that every voice is heard and every vote counts.
But the innovation doesn’t stop there. In the digital realm, the office of state’s Chief Electoral Officer is harnessing the power of social media to amplify its message. Its online campaign is making significant strides in connecting with every corner of Punjab. Through real-time updates and engaging podcasts, it is inspiring citizens to embrace their civic responsibility and actively participate in the democratic process. This concerted effort has earned it the second position nationwide for active engagement on social media platforms and the effective dissemination of crucial electoral information to voters.
Punjab CEO Sibin C revealed that Punjab claimed the second spot in the Social Media Index, with Maharashtra leading the chart, followed by Karnataka, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. The CEO office’s social media handles regularly update voters on Lok Sabha Elections, elector-related details, political party guidelines, and directives from the Election Commission of India.
Furthermore, real-time updates on complaints received via the C-Vigil application are shared, ensuring transparency. “Additionally, the office has launched a podcast from Friday aimed at enhancing voter awareness by providing insights into electoral processes, polling procedures, and the significance of civic participation. Through expert analysis and informative discussions, the podcast aims to empower voters as informed participants in the democratic process,” he added.
In 2019, Punjab recorded a voting percentage of 65.96 per cent during the parliamentary polls, slightly below the national average of 67.11 per cent; while 2022 state assembly polls saw a higher turnout of 71.95 per cent — prompting the state authorities to set ambitious goals for the upcoming elections on June 1. Chief Electoral Officer has emphasized the importance of surpassing the 70 per cent mark this time.
In a concerted effort to revitalize regions where voter participation lagged behind national and state averages, particularly in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the state election authorities are rolling out initiatives aimed at boosting voter turnout. The Commission's focus is on approximately 12,000 polling stations, nearly half of the total 24,433 stations across 12 districts where participation was below par in the previous polls.
Malerkotla's New Mascot ‘Samajhdar Begum’ to Lead Voter Awareness Drive
In an innovative move to boost voter awareness and engagement, Malerkotla Administration on Friday unveiled its newest ally in the mission for a stronger democracy, Samajhdar Begum — the voter awareness mascot. Introduced by Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Election Officer Dr Palavi, ‘Samajhdar Begum’ aimed to educate citizens about the importance of voting and making ethical choices during elections.
Explaining the significance of the mascot, Dr Palavi highlighted that ‘Samajhdar Begum’ embodies the cultural richness and harmony of Malerkotla. “Her arrival coincides with the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr…and Begum is here to assist the voters, clearing doubts and offering guidance throughout the election season,” said Dr Palavi, emphasizing that Begum would remain an integral part of the district's election activities, issuing timely messages to promote informed voting decisions and recognize exemplary practices.
With the goal of achieving a voter turnout exceeding 70 per cent, the administration is prioritizing voter registration, reaching out to IELTS centers and educational institutions to identify eligible voters.
To encourage voter participation, Dr Palavi also announced the establishment of Model Polling Stations, Pink Polling Stations, PWD Polling Stations, and Youth Managed Polling Stations across both assembly constituencies. Additionally, various outreach efforts, including engaging labourers from brick kilns, factories, and commercial complexes, are underway to motivate voters.
Dafli Beats, Jaago Rallies to Improve Voter Turnout
Through innovative initiatives and grassroots engagement, Hoshiarpur is setting the stage for a historic turnout on June 1, proving that democracy thrives when every voice is heard.
To drum up enthusiasm for June 1 polls, the SVEEP (Systematic Voter’s Education and Electoral Participation) officer Preet Kohli in Hoshiarpur has embarked on a musical mission like no other. Playing ‘dafli’ and a spirited slogan — ‘iss vaar, 70 paar’ (this time, cross 70 per cent), Kohli is on a mission to ensure a higher voter turnout than ever before.
‘Dafli’ holds a special place in Punjab's cultural fabric, often accompanying rural festivities and religious ceremonies. Seeking to tap into this cultural connection, Kohli’s is engaging citizens in a dialogue about the power of democracy.
“I am not here to sell anything,” Kohli reassured the passengers in Punjabi aboard a train bound for Jalandhar. “We're here with a simple request: vote on June 1. Don't treat it as a holiday. Bring along your family members and make your voices heard,” he appealed to the passengers.
In addition to his musical outreach, Hoshiarpur District Administration had also organized a traditional ‘Jago’ ceremony at Rupowal village, drawing inspiration from Punjab's rich wedding customs. Around 400 villagers gathered to celebrate the ‘festival of democracy’, pledging to cast their votes with pride on the election day.
As part of the broader awareness campaign, college students have also been enlisted to spread the word about the importance of voting.
