India's first, oldest voter dies at 106
Shyam Saran Negi cast his last vote for Himachal Pradesh Assembly polls via postal ballot on November 2
India's first and oldest voter Shyam Saran Negi died Saturday at the age of 106 in his home inHimachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur.
According to thePress Trust of India (PTI), thecentenarian was the first person to cast a vote during India's first general elections in October 1951 after gaining independence from the British in 1947.
Just two days before his passing, Negi cast his life's last vote on November 2 via postal ballot for elections in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
The 106-year-old was the Election Commission of India's brandambassador.
“Not just the first voter of Independent India, but a man with exceptional faith in democracy,” India's electoral body stated praising Negi a day earlier. “We are eternally grateful for his service to the nation.”
Indian Prime MinisterNarendra Modi recalled Negi's responsibility as a voter which he fulfilled over 30 times during his lifetime.
“Even before his demise, he discharged his duty. His outlook towards democracy will inspire the country’s youth," Modi said praising Negi's loyalty to the country.
Asian News International (ANI), an Indian news agency,took to Twitter to share a photograph of the centenarian casting his last vote for the 34th time.
The state's Chief Minister Jairam Thakur also extended hiscondolence to the legendary civilian's family.
Thecentenarian will be cremated with complete state honours, as informed by the district Kinnaur's Deputy Commissioner Abid Hussian Sadiq.