President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam today appealed to voters to come out and cast their votes in large numbers, becoming a ‘‘proud contributor’’ to the success of this spirit of democracy in the world’s largest democracy.In an address which is the first of its kind by any Indian President, Kalam asked all eligibile voters today, before the first phase of polling on April 20, to treat voting as a ‘‘sacred right’’ that must be exercised in a positive manner.‘‘The right to vote is a sacred right and an onerous responsibility that you owe to the motherland. Hence, exercising your vote must become a priority activity for you and you should cast your vote positively,’’ said the President in his address, which was aired on DD and AIR. Kalam underlined the importance of this democratic exercise in creating a prosperous India. Recalling his Republic Day speech where he had made a similar appeal, the President said the Lok Sabha polls presented a ‘‘great opportunity’’ for citizens to elect representatives of their choice.‘‘By casting your vote for a candidate who in your opinion can represent you in the Lok Sabha, you are sowing the seeds for the creation of a prosperous India, a happy India, a safe India, a secure India and above all an India with nobility.’’In exercising this ‘‘sacred right’’, Kalam said, voters could help fulfill the aspirations of the next generation by creating a ‘‘powerful system’’ that would turn dreams into reality.‘‘In a democracy, an important principle is the equality of every citizen. Elections are an occasion when this can be demonstrated visibly. Therefore, I would request all eligible voters both in urban and rural areas to give a pleasant surprise to the nation by going and voting in large numbers with your eligible family members.’’This is the first time in the history of India’s democracy that a President has chosen to issue such an appeal ahead of parliamentary elections. Kalam said he has been assured by the Election Commission that polling officers will help provide ‘‘easy-to-follow clarifications and guidance’’ to voters about their doubts.
