News18 Tamil Nadu says its 'My Vote My Right' campaign garnered record participation from first-time voters

New Delhi: News18 Tamil Nadu on Friday said it successfully concluded its 'My Vote My Right' campaign with record participation from over 5 lakh first-time voters.

According to the channel, the initiative was aimed to empower and encourage first-time voters to actively engage in the democratic process. Spanning 40 days, the campaign covered 40 Lok Sabha constituencies across Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry.

“The primary objective of the 'My Vote My Right' campaign was to educate and inspire individuals about the significance of voting, encouraging them to pledge their commitment to exercising their democratic rights. Surpassing all expectations, the campaign received an overwhelming response, with a total of 5,30,440 students taking a pledge to vote. The signatories belonged to 160 colleges along the length and breadth of the state,” the channel said.

S. Karthigaichelvan, Editor of News18 Tamil Nadu, handed over the documents signed by students to the Election Commission, symbolizing the dedication of first-time voters to actively participate in shaping the future of their nation.

The grand finale of the campaign, held on April 12 was attended by Satyabrata Sahoo, Chief Electoral Officer of Tamil Nadu, J. Radhakrishnan IAS, Commissioner of Greater Chennai Corporation, and acclaimed actor Vishal among others.

Speaking at the event, Sahoo commended News18 Tamil Nadu for its efforts.

He said, "I am delighted to announce that, for the first time in the 2024 General Elections, we have witnessed 11 lakh first-time voters in the 18 to 19 age category. News18 Tamil Nadu's achievement of garnering more than 5 lakh signatures from first-time voters is truly monumental."

Youth icon and popular actor Vishal complimented News18 team for their efforts and urged the students to actively participate in the electoral process on April 19th, emphasizing the importance of their voices in shaping the future of Tamil Nadu.