Question

THE INTEREST OF VOTERS IN ELECTION -RELATED ACTIVITIES HAS BEEN INCREASING OVER THE YEARS.'' JUSTIFY THE STATEMENT

Answer 1

Explanation:

India stands as a model for many emerging democracies around the world. Free and

fair elections are the hallmark of a well functioning democracy. While we are justifiably proud

of our democracy, there are a number of areas which need to be strengthened for us to

realise the true potential of a well functioning democracy. Our election system, from the

selection of candidates, to the manner in which funds are raised and spent in election

campaigns, are in dire need of significant changes.

There has been a growing concern over the years in India about several aspects of

our electoral system. The Election Commission has made changes in several areas to

respond to some of the concerns. There have also been a number of committees which have

examined the major issues pertaining to our electoral system and made a number of

recommendations. But there remain some critical issues that might need legislative action to

bring about the required changes1

.

Exercising Voting Rights

Voter is the central actor in democratic election. Voters‟ participation in the democratic

and electoral processes is integral to the successful running of any democracy and the very

basis of wholesome democratic elections. Thus, it becomes an integral part of election

management. In India and across the world, the imperative of enhanced voters‟ participation

in Elections is no more a matter of debate, but a serious assignment. In recent decades

however, the world has seen a decline in Voter‟ participation in elections, which would

inevitably point to a democracy deficit.

In India, the constitutional mandate of the Election Commission of India (ECI) for

„Superintendence, Direction and Control‟ of elections contains the in-built high responsibility

to have every eligible Indian on the electoral roll and get everyone on the electoral roll to

voluntarily vote. Several million voters not turning out at polling booth, elections to election,