History of Right to Vote in India
The history of voting rights in India is characterized by social and political progress. During British rule, voting rights were limited and largely granted to a privileged few. After Independence, the Indian Constitution (1950) granted universal adult suffrage, ensuring that all citizens were above the age of 18 years, regardless of their religion, caste, or gender, had the right to vote.
Since the first general elections in 1951-1952 (more than 170 million Indians exercised their right to vote), India has held regular elections, upholding the principles of free and fair elections and ensuring that the right to vote remains a fundamental pillar of its democratic structure.
Right to Vote – A Fundamental Right
Right to Vote forms an essential aspect of citizenship in democratic societies. It grants individuals the opportunity to participate in the democratic process and have a say in their government. The right represents the fundamental democratic principles of equality, representation, and responsibility. India celebrated its 13th National Day on 25th January 2023 with the theme “Nothing Like Voting, I Vote for Sure”.
In this article, we’ll learn more about this fundamental right termed as Right to Vote, their legal framework, how it applies to Indian citizens, and many more.