Is compulsory voting feasible in the Indian context?, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• The Election Commission announced the poll schedule for five Assembly elections to be held in April-May 2026.
• The Supreme Court raised questions regarding mandatory voting in elections during a hearing on a poll-related matter.
• Article 326 of the Constitution grants every citizen the right to vote without discrimination if they are at least 18 years old.
• The Dinesh Goswami Committee (1990) did not favor compulsory voting due to implementation challenges.
• The Law Commission's 255th report (2015) stated compulsory voting increases turnout by 7% but is undesirable in India.

Detailed Insights:

• The right to vote in India is a statutory right, as held by the Supreme Court in various cases, and is outlined in the Representation of the People Act.
• While some countries like Australia and Brazil enforce compulsory voting with penalties, such measures may violate Article 19(1) of the Indian Constitution, concerning freedom of expression.
• Low voter turnout can lead to candidates winning with a minority of votes, but compulsory voting is not considered a feasible solution in India.
• Encouraging voter participation through awareness campaigns, especially on social media, and improving facilities for migrant workers are better alternatives.
• Newer technologies should be considered to develop secure and acceptable methods for remote voting, enhancing accessibility and participation.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Article 326: Grants every citizen the right to vote without discrimination if they are at least 18 years old.
• Statutory Right: A right protected by laws and statutes, rather than being a fundamental or constitutional right.
• Compulsory Voting: A system where eligible citizens are required by law to vote in elections, often with penalties for non-compliance.