Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD/EP)

Udupi, Jan 25: Chief District and Sessions judge Shantaveera Shivappa emphasized the importance of discerning voting for the formation of a healthy society. Speaking at the National Voter's Day programme held at Ajjarkad auditorium, he urged voters to choose representatives without being swayed by temptations or differences in caste and religion.

Inaugurating the programme, Judge Shivappa highlighted the responsibility of citizens in ensuring a transparent government. He commended the Election Commission's awareness program, Sweep, and emphasized the need for every eligible citizen to participate in the election process, aiming for a 100% voter turnout. Judge Shivappa congratulated the winners of the quiz competition from Aloor school and Dayat principal Ashok Kamath, who received the Best National Level Master Trainer award.

SP Dr Arun K stressed the significance of thoughtful voting for bringing about positive change. He emphasized that a strong society is achievable when citizens perceive voting as their duty.

Senior Civil Judge and Member of District Legal Services Authority, Sharmila S, administered the oath for National Voter's Day. Identity cards were symbolically issued to new young voters, and prizes were distributed to competition winners from high schools, pre-university colleges, and degree colleges.

ASP Siddalingappa, election ambassadors, sports personality Rohith Kumar Shetty, artist Manasi Sudheer, drama actress R J Kajal, cricketer Prithviraj Shetty Hunchani, along with district and taluk level officers, students, and teaching and non-teaching staff, attended the event.

Additional DC Mamatha Devi G S welcomed the gathering, and Dr Roshan Kumar Shetty, assistant director of Youth Empowerment and Sports Department, compered the programme.

A rally with more than 2,000 students raising voting slogans proceeded from the Service bus stand through key city roads, concluding at the Town Hall.