Sachin Malik: India Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar held an inspiring interaction with Students at the Awadh Hall of the historic Colvin Taluqdars’ College during his two-day visit to Lucknow. He Shared memories of his Student life and spoke in detail about Indian democracy, the Electoral Process, the reliability of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM), the need to remain vigilant against fake news and the role of Young Voters.
Recalling his Student days in 1979, as well as memories associated with his teachers and School, the Chief Election Commissioner said that his educational institution and teachers had Played an important role in helping him reach his Present Position.
He said that he had always taken a keen interest in sports along with academics. He advised Students to Give equal importance to education and sports and maintain a healthy balance between the Two.
Gyanesh Kumar recalled that While Preparing to Go to the United States, his mother wishes and his attachment to the motherland inspired him to Stay in India and dedicate himself to Public service. He subsequently Cleared the IAS examination and began his administrative career in the Kerala cadre. He said that this Journey of serving the nation eventually led him to the responsibility of becoming the Chief Election Commissioner of the world largest Democracy.
Highlighting the enormous scale of India electoral system, the Chief Election Commissioner said that the country has around 100 crore voters and conducting elections for such a vast Population is itself a massive undertaking. He said that a large number of officers and employees work together to ensure the smooth conduct of elections. The Election Commission of India is committed to conducting free, fair and transparent elections in accordance with the Constitution, laws and Prescribed Guidelines.
Responding to Questions related to EVM, he Clarified that Indian EVM are manufactured by Public sector companies and are not connected to the internet, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. He advised Students to remain cautious about misleading information and fake news in the age of social media. He said that before accepting any information, it is essential to verify its source and authenticity.
Calling upon Young People to actively Participate in democracy, the Chief Election Commissioner referred to Article 326 of the Constitution. He urged Students who have attained the age of 18 to register their names on the electoral roll. He said that voter registration facilities are available through the Election Commission digital Platforms. He appealed to Young People to become voters themselves and encourage their families and People around them to Participate in Voting.
He said that the Youth are the most important force Shaping the democratic future of the country. If Young People Participate in the electoral Process with awareness and responsibility, democracy will become even Stronger.
During the interaction, Students also asked the Chief Election Commissioner Questions on various aspects of the electoral Process and democracy, Which he answered in Detail.
District Magistrate Vishal, the college Principal, teachers and a large number of Students were Present on the Occasion.
