Paralympic Champions: New Faces of Voter Inspiration for Persons with Disabilities

In a momentous event at Nirvachan Sadan, the Election Commission of India (ECI) celebrated the achievements of two remarkable Paralympic archers while simultaneously enlisting their support to inspire voters across the nation. Ms. Sheetal Devi and Shri Rakesh Kumar, fresh from their bronze medal victory in Archery at the Paris Summer Paralympics 2024, were honored for their sporting prowess and appointed as national icons for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).

The Felicitation Ceremony

A Warm Welcome from ECI Leadership

The ceremony was presided over by key figures of the Election Commission:

• Shri Rajiv Kumar, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)
• Shri Gyanesh Kumar, Election Commissioner (EC)
• Dr. Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, Election Commissioner (EC)

These officials warmly welcomed Ms. Sheetal Devi, who was accompanied by her mother, Ms. Shakti Devi, and coaches Ms. Abhilasha Chaudhary and Mr. Kuldeep Kumar.

Recognition of Paralympic Achievements

The Commission took this opportunity to formally recognize the outstanding achievements of both archers:

Appointment of National Icons

During the ceremony, two significant announcements were made:

1. Ms. Sheetal Devi was reaffirmed as the ECI National Icon for PwDs, a role she had been appointed to just before the announcement of General Elections to Lok Sabha 2024 on March 16th, 2024.
2. Shri Rakesh Kumar was newly appointed as an ECI National Icon for PwDs.

The Champions: Profiles in Perseverance

Ms. Sheetal Devi: A Young Trailblazer

At just 17 years old, Sheetal Devi has already made history as India’s youngest Paralympic medallist. Her impressive list of achievements includes:

Shri Rakesh Kumar: A Seasoned Competitor

Rakesh Kumar brings a wealth of experience to his role as a national icon:

ECI’s Vision: Accessible and Inclusive Elections

Empowering Future Voters

The Commission emphasized its commitment to making elections accessible and inclusive for all. They highlighted how Ms. Sheetal Devi, as a young future voter from Jammu and Kashmir, serves as a powerful motivator for both youth and PwDs to engage in the democratic process.

Upcoming Focus: Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections

CEC Shri Rajiv Kumar specifically mentioned the role these archers, who hail from Jammu and Kashmir, will play in enhancing voter participation in the upcoming Assembly elections in their home region.

Statements from ECI Leadership

CEC Shri Rajiv Kumar

The Chief Election Commissioner praised the champions’ courage and determination, stating:

• When principles of equality and equity are upheld, disability is seen as an opportunity for developing additional strengths.
• Ms. Sheetal Devi, at her young age, is an inspiration for youth and PwDs, encouraging participation in both sports and democracy.

EC Shri Gyanesh Kumar

Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar congratulated the Paralympians, noting:

• Their journey serves as an inspiration for PwDs.
• Their role as ECI national icons would help encourage voter participation.

EC Dr. S.S. Sandhu

Election Commissioner Sandhu commended the champions:

• He lauded their dedication and determination.
• He encouraged them to continue being role models, particularly for youth and PwDs.