Guwahati: With mascots, influencers, cultural activities and even water taps woven into the campaign, voters awareness drive (SVEEP) in Assam is turning everyday life into a celebration of democracy ahead of the Apr 9 polls.EC’s colourful and innovative voter awareness campaigns were rolled out under the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme, blending culture, community and even water supply schemes to inspire citizens to exercise their democratic right.
From street plays, rangoli competitions, slogan-writing contests and digital poster-making events to mascots and local icons, districts are experimenting with creative outreach.The office of state chief electoral officer (CEO) said Jorhat has enlisted popular northeast vlogger Abhinav Borah (LazyGuy), while Lakhimpur has roped in actor Rajiv Duwari.Adding to the campaign’s appeal, Rakesh Banik, the first international para-cyclist from the northeast, is promoting voter awareness across districts.Mascots such as Bakhar in Lakhimpur, Ganabandhu in Sonitpur, Jolou in Jorhat, Chameli in Golaghat, and Dwimlu and Sikhiri in Kokrajhar are being used to connect with voters at the grassroots.On World Water Day on last Sunday, a vote awareness drive was carried out through the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) as well.In all, 2,100 activities were conducted across the state on Sunday, drawing nearly 25,000 participants. The campaign demonstrated that everyday community spaces — from taps to cultural stages — can be leveraged to spread awareness about voting rights.
