Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 07 April 2024
In view of the General Election to Lok Sabha-2024 and in alignment with the Election Commission of India’s unwavering commitment to ensure ‘No Voters to be Left Behind’ in the celebration of democracy, the District Election Office of N&M Andaman orchestrated an Election awareness program themed ‘Karen Matdaata Mahotsav.’ This event, held exclusively for the Karen Community, took place at Karmatang Beach, Mayabunder on April 6, 2024, under the auspices of Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP).
The program witnessed the participation of key figures including the District Election Officer/Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Dilkhush Meena, IAS, Mr. Ashish Joon, Assistant Commissioner (HQ), Dy. SP (HQ) Dr. Chandra Prakash Meena, alongside other Election functionaries of N&M Andaman.
During his address, the chief guest elucidated on the SVEEP activities conducted by the District Election Office to empower voters with information, stressing the paramount importance of ethical voting in the upcoming election. He extended gratitude to the Heads of Karen Community for their successful collaboration in organizing the event and urged them to exercise their voting rights on the Poll day, scheduled for April 19, 2024.
The event was marked by a series of cultural performances including bamboo dance, folk dances, and songs centered around the theme of elections, all presented by members of the Karen community. With a population of approximately 3200, the Karen community has been settled in various locations since 1925 under various government settlement schemes.
The primary objective of the program was to engage with the community, celebrate their rich cultural heritage, and raise awareness about the electoral process and the myriad initiatives undertaken by the Election Commission of India to ensure free, fair, accessible, and peaceful elections. Alongside the Karen Matdaata Mahotsav, a display of Sand Art themed on electioneering captivated attendees, serving as a major highlight of the festival.