Shimla, May 28: Elderly voters turned out in large numbers during the second phase of the three-tier Panchayati Raj elections in the Mashobra block on Thursday, setting an inspiring example of democratic participation.
Polling was held across 11 gram panchayats of Mashobra block, including Dhali, Kohlu Jubbar, Kufri, Padhechi, Janedghat, Malyana, Pujarli, Manju Dabri, Shilon Bagh and Pagog, where enthusiastic voters queued up at polling stations since morning.
According to the Election Officer, Panchayat Mashobra, 94-year-old Shaunkiya Ram and 80-year-old Narayan Singh Thakur from Dhali Panchayat walked nearly two kilometres to reach the polling booth despite health issues. Shaunkiya Ram urged the younger generation to understand the importance of voting in a democracy.
In Gram Panchayat Kufri Shawah, 93-year-old Santram, 90-year-old Kamala Devi and 87-year-old Gauri Datt also cast their votes despite being unwell, inspiring many young voters.
At the Thund polling station, 96-year-old Gauri Devi and 92-year-old Bish Ram exercised their franchise, reaffirming their commitment to the democratic process. Election officials said the participation of senior citizens created a motivating atmosphere at polling stations throughout the day.
