Coimbatore: The district administration has displayed what it called the ‘journey of elections’ – small boards, roll up banners with Coimbator’s election mascot detailing everything from the formation of election commission on Jan 25, 950, to the first general election held in India between 1951-52 for almost four months and increase in voter population 17 crores in 1951 to 95 crore till date – for a 2.5km stretch at Race Course.Through this initiative, the district administration aims to ensure 100% voter turnout in the upcoming assembly election. The district administration is carrying out various systematic voters’ education and electoral participation activities to encourage all eligible voters to exercise their right to franchise on the poll day – April 23. The boards and banners put up at Race Course are intended to educate the public about India’s election scenario – one piece of information says about 80% of voters were illiterate in 1951 and another says the percentage of women voters has increased from 37 in 1951 to 687 in 2024. Information about the production of ink used at polling stations, use of electronic voting machines and inclusion of third gender in the electoral rolls is also on display. A model polling station and a couple of selfie points also dot the stretch, where many people are seen stopping to read the information and take selfies.
