MARGAO
Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai on Thursday said the historic 1977 general election had not only restored democracy in the country, but had protected the country from the authoritarian concept.
Speaking as a Chief guest at the National Voters Day at the Ravindra Bhavan, Margao on Thursday, Governor Pillai further said the states in the cow belt defeated the government in power in the 1977 election.
“People in the cow belt states were considered illiterate and uneducated those days. But, they rose to the occasion by rejecting the then government in 1977. This shows that education is not a criteria in the revival of a political situation”, he said.
Appreciating the efficiency and integrity of the Election Commission of India, the governor said that the crux of democracy lies in the free and fair election process of the country. "The nation has always witnessed the power of voters in the democratic set up wherein people have shaken the political powers and protected its freedom”, he said.
While stressing upon the power of voters, Governor recalled the political situation during 1971 till 1977 in the country and described how people exercised their right to vote to bring down the ruling Government.
“Although the country has diverse cultures and languages, it has blended with unity of people. Election Commission is tirelessly working towards promoting the integrity and sovereignty of the nation. Goa has witnessed a free and fair process of election and it is very impressive”, the Governor added.
Governor congratulated new voters and appealed to young voters to enjoy their right in the elections and contribute in keeping democracy stronger and vibrant.
