Maha: Guv appeals people to exercise franchise peacefully

Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao today appealed to people to exercise their franchise for the local body polls in the state in an orderly and peaceful manner.
The state is going through the process of elections to Municipal Corporations and Panchayat Raj institutions of Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis.
"The democratic exercise reflects our faith and commitment to the institutions of local self-government, which have become constitutional bodies after the passage of the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments. I appeal to the people of Maharashtra to exercise their franchise in an orderly and peaceful manner in the true spirit of democracy," Rao said in his address after unfurling the national flag on the 68th Republic Day celebrations at Shivjai Park here.

He said this is a day to reaffirm the commitment of people to strengthen the democratic values enshrined in the Constitution and to rededicate oneself to work for the all-round development of the nation and the state.
"We have successfully traversed a long and arduous path to fulfil the objectives of a democratic and socialistic order. Today, we can look back with a sense of satisfaction at our united efforts that have enabled achievements in various walks of life. Many sectors of our economy have undergone radical transformation," Rao said.
The state has been marching ahead to achieve all inclusive growth, he added, adding that Maharashtra has set up a Science and Technology Commission under the chairmanship of former Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission Dr Anil Kakodkar.

"With a view to ensuring the security of all citizens and prevent the recurrence of terror crimes, 7261 CCTV cameras have been installed in Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur," he said.

(Reopens BOM1)
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis unfurled
the national flag at his official residence this morning to mark the 68th Republic Day and later visited Shivaji Park in Dadar to celebrate the occasion in presence of senior bureaucrats.
Fadnavis posted a video message through his tweet in which he outlined the importance of Constitution, which came into force this day in 1950.
"Our Constitution is the greatest and best instrument to convert Swarajya into Surajya. #RepublicDay," he tweeted.

Mayor of Mumbai Snehal Ambekar along with BMC Commissioner Ajoy Mehta hoisted the tricolour at the municipal headquarters.
Guardian Minister of Mumbai Suburban district Vinod Tawde hoisted the flag at Collector's office. Collector Deependra Singh Kushwah, other officials and local residents were present on the occasion.
General Managers of Central and Western Railways unfurled the tricolour at their respective headquarters and extended greetings to passengers on Republic Day.
Political parties, too, celebrated the day with patriotic fervour and enthusiasm.
Maharashtra BJP President Raosaheb Danve along with other state leaders celebrated the day at the party headquarters in South Mumbai.
State Congress chief Ashok Chavan unfurled the tricolour at the party headquarters.

NCP leaders Sunil Tatkare and Supriya Sule celebrated the day at party office at Nariman Point, South Mumbai.
State Election Commission, which is busying making arrangments for the upcoming local body polls, put up a tableau in Shivaji park to sensitise people about their voting rights.
"This tableau will sensitise the people and voters of the State about the importance of voting. The float has the maps and other information of local bodies going to the polls," said an official from the Commission.
Elaborate security arrangements were made in the metropolis to ensure the day passed off peacefully.
Mumbai Police spokesperson Ashok Dudhe said, "Strict vigil was maintained at all iconic places, vital installations and vulnerable spots across the city.