Coimbatore, Aug 1 (IANS) Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar on Saturday underscored the importance of maintaining transparent and accurate electoral rolls, describing them as the foundation of free and fair elections in the country.
Addressing the 30th Convocation Ceremony of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham at its Coimbatore campus as the chief guest, Kumar said the integrity of the electoral process depended significantly on the accuracy and credibility of voter lists. Speaking to graduating students, faculty members and other dignitaries, the Chief Election Commissioner highlighted the responsibility of citizens in strengthening democratic institutions.
He encouraged young people, particularly first-time and future voters, to actively participate in the democratic process and understand the importance of exercising their electoral rights responsibly.
Kumar said transparent electoral rolls were essential to ensure that every eligible citizen had an opportunity to participate in elections. Maintaining accurate voter records, he noted, was a crucial part of protecting the credibility of elections and reinforcing public confidence in the democratic system.
The CEC also used the occasion to emphasise the larger role that young graduates could play in nation-building.
As students step out of universities and enter professional and public life, their participation in democratic institutions and civic affairs would contribute to the country’s progress, he said.
He urged the graduating students to remain informed about democratic processes and to recognise that citizenship extended beyond casting a vote during elections. Active engagement, awareness and a commitment to democratic values were equally important in strengthening India’s electoral democracy.
The convocation brought together graduating students from different academic disciplines along with faculty members, university officials and invited dignitaries. Degrees were conferred on students who successfully completed their respective programmes at the university.
Kumar’s address focused on the connection between responsible citizenship and the functioning of a vibrant democracy, with particular emphasis on ensuring the inclusiveness and accuracy of the electoral system.
The Chief Election Commissioner’s participation in the ceremony also provided graduating students an opportunity to hear about the functioning of one of India’s key constitutional institutions and the role citizens play in safeguarding democratic processes.
The 30th convocation marked an important academic milestone for the graduating batches of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s Coimbatore campus as they prepared to move into higher studies, research and professional careers.
–IANS
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