India’s First voter Shyam Saran Negi passes away at 106 in Himachal

The 106-year-old had voted more than 30 times in his life.

Digital Desk: Independent India’s First voter Shyam Saran Negi died on Saturday morning at his residence in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur. He was 106.

On November 2, Negi had cast his vote for the State’s Assembly polls through postal ballot, the Election Commission stated. 

Prime Minster Narendra Modi expressing his condolences at a poll rally in Mandi district’s Sundarnagar, said, “I learnt about Shyam Saran Negi when I was leaving from New Delhi in the morning. The 106-year-old had voted more than 30 times in his life.

“Just a few days ago, Negi had cast his vote through postal ballot for the Himachal Pradesh Polls. Even before his demise, he discharged his duty,”Modi said, adding Negi’s outlook towards democracy will inspire the country’s youth.

“With a heavy heart, I bow my head to pay homage and express my deepest condolences to his kin,” the Prime Minister added. 

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur took to twitter to condole the death. “I am pained to learn about the passing away of India‘s first voter Shyam Saran Negi,”he said.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Maneesh Garg said Negi was also the Brand Ambassador for the Election Commission. (with inputs from PTI)

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