MEETING OF CEO WITH THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE RENOWNED INSTITUTIONS IN THE STATE
Panaji : January 01, 2026
A meeting on the thematic priority “Democracy for the Empowerment of Marginalized Sections of Society” was conducted on December 30, 2025 under the leadership of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO). The meeting aimed at strengthening inclusive democratic practices and enhancing participation of marginalized communities in the electoral process.
During the meeting, the Chief Electoral Officer informed the participants that India has assumed the Chairship of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA). He highlighted that this prestigious responsibility reflects India’s strong commitment to democratic values, inclusive governance, and electoral integrity at the global level.
The CEO stated that India’s chairship of International IDEA provides an important opportunity to showcase the country’s efforts in empowering marginalized sections of society through democratic participation.
The meeting included discussions on various initiatives undertaken by the Election Commission to ensure accessibility, awareness, and participation of marginalized groups such as persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and socially disadvantaged communities like scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, other backward classes and economically backward classes, PVTGS, Transgender and sex workers.
Representatives from Goa University, Shri (Dr) Rahul Triapthi, & Asst. Prof. Ravji Gaunkar Department of Political Science, Principal of V. M. Salgaocar College of Law, Shri (Dr) Shaber Ali and Shri Sudesh Nanda Gaude, Asst. Professor, Psychiatric Social Work at IPHB, Bambolim, Goa and Nodal Officer for Accessible Elections and Asst. Chief Electoral Officer & State Training Nodal Officer Ms. Sapna S. Naik Bandodkar were present.
The Chief Electoral Officer informed the participants to identify experts from their respective institutions and prepare a detailed report on the topic “Democracy for the Empowerment of Marginalized Sections of Society.” He requested them to highlight best practices, challenges, and innovative approaches that can further strengthen inclusive democracy in line with India’s role as Chair of International IDEA. Participants in the meeting shared their views and suggestions in the preparation of this report.
The meeting concluded with a call for collective efforts to uphold democratic ideals and to ensure that the voices of marginalized sections are heard, respected, and represented in the democratic process.
DI/INF/AXP/NP/2025/1088