Kerala Kaumudi impact; Election Commission launches action plan to engage youth in voting

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Election Commission in Kerala has devised a strategy to attract young voters after a Kerala Kaumudi report revealed that 70% of 18-year-olds in the state were missing from the voter list over the last two years. The objective is to register 10-25% of new voters with a particular focus on awareness campaigns ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Under the initiative, nodal officers have been appointed in all districts by State Chief Electoral Officer Sanjay M. Kaul. Film star Tovino Thomas and singer Nanchiyamma will participate in awareness programs aimed at encouraging female voters. The Electoral Literal Clubs in Higher Secondary Schools and Colleges will actively identify and enroll eligible candidates. Additionally, the Election Commission plans to conduct educational sessions in taluks to educate citizens on the voting process.

To further engage the youth, street plays and flash mobs will be organized across the state. Despite a population of over 10 lakh 18 and 19-year-old, only 2,88,533 individuals are currently listed in the voter roll. In the past, young people were eager to register but the trend has declined recently.

National Election Commission officials are scheduled to visit the state on the 13th and 14th during which District Election Officers and Collectors will convene in Thiruvananthapuram on the 14th to review ongoing activities, including the registration of first-time voters.

For those still not listed, there is an opportunity to add their names to the electoral roll through the website www.ceo.kerala.gov.in by uploading proof of age. Alternatively, registration can also be completed at Akshaya centres.