Youth lead ‘My Vote, My Right’ march in Balagarh on National Voters’ Day
The Statesman | 26 January 2026
On the occasion of National Voters’ Day today, a meaningful and impactful programme titled “My Vote, My Right” was organised at Balagarh in Hooghly district with the objective of promoting awareness about democratic procedures among the youth.
The programme was jointly held by Mera Yuva Bharat, Hooghly (under the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports) in collaboration with the National Service Scheme (NSS) of Balagarh Bijoy Krishna Mahavidyalaya. The programme commenced in the morning with a cycle rally, which started from the Mahavidyalaya and proceeded to Jirat Colony High School.
Around 300 NSS volunteers and students participated, reflecting strong youth engagement in democratic processes. The rally was jointly
inaugurated by Dr Pratap Banerjee, principal of Balagarh Bijoy Krishna Mahavidyalaya, Mr Saikat Mondal, Chief Official of MY Bharat, Hooghly, and Mr. Satyaki Banerjee, assistant teacher and NCC Officer of Jirat Colony High School.
In their addresses, the speakers emphasised that the future of democracy rests in the hands of the youth. Special emphasis was laid on encouraging first-time voters to exercise their franchise in a conscious, responsible, and ethical manner. After the cycle rally, a seminar chaired by Dr Banerjee was held in the presence of assistant teachers and former as well as current Booth Level Officers under the Election Commission of India. The theme of the seminar was “First-Time Voters as a Transformative Democratic Force.”
Voting is not merely a constitutional right but a historic civic responsibility, the speakers said. They urged young voters to reject misinformation, make informed electoral choices, and uphold constitutional values. The programme witnessed remarkable enthusiasm throughout, with T-shirts, badges and refreshments adding to the incentives.