Sordar of Smit, U Sangot educate tribal villagers on voter’s rights at Smit

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 9, 2024

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Smit’s weekly tribal market day, an election awareness programme organized on Monday by Chief Electoral Officer Meghalaya garnered significant attention from the community members.

The event, aimed at educating and engaging citizens on the importance of voting and electoral processes during the run up to the Lok Sabha elections, drew a sizable crowd eager to participate and learn.

Pynshongdor Lyngdoh Nongbri, Sordar of Smit initiated the voter’s awareness programme, asking the people, who had assembled at the weekly market from the nearby villages, to ensure that they exercise their franchise on April 19.  

The awareness programme, which was led by U Sangot, the traditional tribal announcer, was held at Madan Iasit, in the heart of Smit, saw enthusiastic participation from people of all ages and backgrounds.

U Sangot took the stage to deliver informative sessions on electoral procedures, the significance of voting, and the role of citizens in shaping the democratic process.

The concept of making the use of the services of U Sangot, an integral part of tribal Khasi customs, was designed by Dr. B D R Tiwari, Chief Electoral Officer Meghalaya.

The U Sangot team has been engaged in election awareness programmes in Ri Bhoi, Khasi Hills and Jaintia hills districts of Meghalaya.

“The initiative has been part of SVEEP, which is designed according to the cultural and the demographic profile of the state,” Dr. Tiwari said.  

The tribal people, who had assembled from more than five-dozen villages around Smit on Monday, were told about the need for active participation in the upcoming Lok Sabha election, which is scheduled to be held on April 19 in Meghalaya.

The tribal villagers were asked to exercise their democratic right responsibly and to make informed choices for the betterment of their communities and the nation as a whole.

Tosanbha Marwein, Deputy CEO Meghalaya also attended the programme, and told the people about their constitutional right to vote. He urged the tribal populace to come out in large number on April 19 and vote for a stronger democracy. 

Banlumlang Kharsyntiew, a youth of Smit expressed his appreciation for the efforts of CEO Meghalaya to raise awareness about the electoral process in the villages.

“Events like these are crucial for ensuring that everyone understands the importance of voting and actively participates in shaping the future of our region,” Kharsyntiew said.

Mining Mylliemngap, a youth leader of Smit said CEO Meghalaya’s election awareness programme provided an opportunity to the villagers to clarify doubts about the upcoming Lok Sabha election.

Election awareness branded merchandise was distributed to encourage enthusiastic participation, further enhanced the lively atmosphere at the market.

K, Geoffrey Nongrum, Nodal Officer (SVEEP) was also present at the event at Smit on Monday.

With the elections on the horizon, initiatives like the one witnessed in Smit serve as crucial stepping stones towards building an informed and participative electorate, laying the foundation for a stronger and more vibrant democracy.