Assam: Historic turnout at Dhekiajuli Panchayat polls

A CORRESPONDENT

DHEKIAJULI: The Dhekiajuli Legislative Assembly constituency in Sonitpur district witnessed a remarkable and peaceful Panchayat election on Friday, where democracy flourished not only through enthusiastic voter participation but also through the empowerment of women on the electoral frontlines. A total of 206 polling stations across the constituency conducted the polling with efficiency and discipline, with only a few minor, scattered incidents reported, reflecting the Dhekiajuli co-district’s growing political maturity and civic responsibility. A standout feature of this election was the full management of eight polling stations by women officials from presiding officers and polling assistants to security personnel, a bold step by the Dhekiajuli Co-District Commissioner that highlights Assam’s commitment to gender-inclusive governance. These women-led booths, including five at Vivekananda Vidyapith High School, Dhekiajuli under Chenimari Gaon Panchayat and three at Bani Niketan Middle English School under Bhotpara Panchayat, operated seamlessly throughout the day, receiving praise from voters and observers for their professionalism and conduct.

Among the voters was Assam’s Health and Family Welfare Minister Ashok Singhal, who exercised his franchise at the Bani Niketan ME School and addressed the media afterward, calling the Panchayat election the “greatest celebration of democracy.” He commended the large number of independent candidates contesting due to the absence of party symbols, saying that this non-partisan approach encouraged grassroots leadership and wider participation, even from those previously uninvolved in formal politics. Minister Singhal urged all citizens to turn out in large numbers to uphold and strengthen the democratic fabric.

Also casting his vote on Friday was Borsola constituency MLA Ganesh Kumar Limbu at 3 No. Gangapur Primary School, adding to the dignified tone of the day. Social media was abuzz with images and posts celebrating the calm, orderly process and the inspiring presence of women in leadership roles at polling centers. Citizens and local influencers shared live updates and messages encouraging peaceful voting and applauding the role of women as agents of democratic change. In Dhekiajuli, the smooth execution of the election, the assertive presence of women officials, and the dignified participation of leaders and citizens alike made this a landmark event, one that set a high bar for future elections across Assam.

Also Read: Assam: Peaceful First Phase of Panchayat Polls Held in Bokakhat

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