Khandwa (Madhya Pradesh), July 5 (IANS) Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar visited Omkareshwar, a town situated on the sacred banks of the Narmada River in Madhya Pradesh, where he offered prayers at one of the 12 revered shrines of Lord Shiva in accordance with traditional rituals.

Upon arrival in Madhya Pradesh on Saturday, the Chief Election Commissioner visited the Omkareshwar Temple and offered his prayers. CEC Kumar, accompanied by his family, witnessed the ‘Shringar Aarti’ and ‘Shayan Shringar’ (evening adornment and retiring rituals) at the revered Lord Shiva shrine.

CEC Kumar stated that he had taken a vow in 2003 to visit all 12 Jyotirlingas. This vow was fulfilled with his visit to the Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga. Reflecting on the completion of this spiritual journey spanning approximately 23 years, he expressed deep gratitude to Lord Mahadev, stating that it was made possible only through His boundless grace.

In a message to the nation, Chief Election Commissioner Kumar emphasised that every individual should accord importance and a special place to spirituality in their lives.

“Spirituality grants us inner peace, positive energy, and balance in life. He remarked that Indian culture, traditions, and spiritual heritage constitute an invaluable legacy, and connecting with them allows us to experience the essence of Indianness truly,” CEC Kumar stated.

He called upon all citizens to participate positively in the country’s progress and prosperity and to contribute actively to nation-building.

CEC Kumar arrived in Indore on Saturday for his two-day visit to Madhya Pradesh.

He was welcomed at the airport by senior election officials and members of the district administration before beginning a day-long programme focused on strengthening coordination with grassroots election machinery.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer Sanjeev Kumar Jha, Joint Chief Electoral Officer R.P.S. Jadon, Indore Divisional Commissioner Sudam Khade, Police Commissioner Santosh Singh, Indore Collector Shivam Verma and Municipal Commissioner Kshitij Singhal received the CEC.

After his arrival, Gyanesh Kumar paid floral tributes at the ‘Gadi’ (‘throne’ or seat of power) of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar located at the airport premises.

–IANS

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