GDC Kishtwar hosts symposium on ‘Importance of Adult Franchise for Strengthening Democracy’

KISHTWAR, AUGUST 31: The Electoral Literary Club under District SVEEP Cell and Women Development Cell/NCC Women Wing of GDC Kishtwar, in collaboration with the Nodal Officer SVEEP AC-49 Kishtwar, organized a one-day symposium on the importance of adult franchise for strengthening democracy.

The programme was held under the abled guidance of Prof. Basharat Iqbal, Principal GDC Kishtwar, and under the supervision of Dr. Yasar Ahmed, Nodal Officer SVEEP, and Dr. Tabassum Saleem, Convenor WDC/ NCC Women Wing, aimed to raise awareness about the crucial role of voting in a democratic society among young students of GDC Kishtwar.

The event began with a warm welcome by Dr. Tabassum Saleem, who extended greetings to all the dignitaries present. The event saw active participation of 150 students and faculty members, who gathered to deliberate on the significance of adult franchise in a democracy. The panel of judges for the event included Dr. Tabassum Saleem, Professor Sheikh Mohd Usman, and Professor Ashfaq Ahmed Wani.

Masood Hussain Qazi, Nodal Officer SVEEP AC 49 Kishtwar graced the occasion as the chief guest, alongside other esteemed dignitaries, including Prof. Umar Din Rather, Prof. Ajeet Kumar,Prof. Waseem Ahmed, Prof. Om Raj, Shahnawaz Hussain, Daljeet Singh, and Amarjeet Parihar.

In his keynote address, Qazi emphasized that voting is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy, highlighting the need for informed and responsible voting, particularly among young adults, who are the future leaders of the nation.

The symposium featured ten participants who presented their views and ideas on how the adult franchise can enhance democratic processes and institutions. The competition segment of the symposium showcased the depth of understanding and enthusiasm among the participants.

Sonika Devi won first prize for her insightful presentation, followed by Salma Liquat, who secured the second prize, and Mehak Sharma, who was awarded the third prize. The winners were felicitated with trophies, and their contributions were highly praised by both the judges and the audience.

A pledge ceremony on responsible voting was also held at end of the event, reinforcing the commitment to active participation in the democratic process.

The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Professor Sheikh Mohd Usman, who acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the organising committee and the members of office of the Nodal Officer SVEEP AC-49 Kishtwar. The event successfully sparked a dialogue on the essential role of every citizen in shaping the democratic fabric of the nation through active electoral participation.