THE CONTEXT: With the 2024 elections in India approaching, there is growing concern over the low voter registration rates among young citizens aged 18 to 19. According to data from the Election Commission of India, less than 40% of these potential first-time voters have registered, with significant variations across states. Addressing this is important to maintaining a strong democracy.
ISSUES:
- Low Voter Registration Among Young Citizens: The data from the Election Commission of India indicates that less than 40% of voters aged 18 to 19 have registered to vote. This is concerning as these are first-time voters who are expected to be eager to exercise their democratic rights.
- State-wise Variations in Voter Registration: There is a significant disparity in voter registration rates among different states. For instance, Telangana has over 66% of young voters registered, while Bihar has only 17%, despite having the youngest population in India. Delhi and Uttar Pradesh also show low registration rates.
- Potential Reasons for Low Registration: The migration could affect voter registration, as seen in the low rates in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. However, this does not fully explain the variations, as Chhattisgarh, with a high migration rate, shows a higher registration rate.
- Cultural and State-specific Factors: It is implied that cultural and other state-specific factors might influence voter registration rates. These factors must be identified and addressed to improve registration among young voters.
- Lack of Participation at the Polls: Even among young citizens who register, many may not vote. The issue is not only motivating young people to register but also ensuring they participate in the voting process.
THE WAY FORWARD:
- Efforts to Increase Youth Voter Engagement: The Election Commission of India has initiated campaigns like the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) program and has involved celebrities to encourage youth participation in elections.
- Political Parties’ Responsibility: The political parties who have a strong presence at the grassroots level should take an active role in encouraging young voters to register and vote, as it is in their interest to do so.
- Leverage Celebrity and Influencer Endorsements: It can be effective to involve famous figures like Sachin Tendulkar to spread the message. This strategy could be expanded to include more influencers who resonate with the youth.
- Make Registration and Voting More Accessible: Addressing logistical barriers to registration and voting, such as by providing online registration options or setting up more accessible polling stations, could remove some of the practical obstacles that prevent young people from participating.
- Focus on Interests, Not Positions: By understanding the underlying interests of young voters rather than their surface-level positions, authorities can tailor their strategies to meet better their actual needs and concerns, which could increase their willingness to register and vote.
- Increase Awareness and Education: Just as organizations use education to address issues, the Election Commission of India and other stakeholders could enhance their efforts to educate young citizens about the importance of voting and how it impacts their lives. This could involve campaigns in schools, universities, and through social media.
THE CONCLUSION:
To address the low interest in voting among India’s youth, a multifaceted approach involving government initiatives, community efforts, and political engagement is necessary. Increasing awareness, making registration, and voting more accessible, and directly addressing the concerns of young citizens are crucial steps. Strengthening democracy requires the active participation of all citizens, especially the youth, in the electoral process.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:
Q.1 Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India, considering the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. 2022
Q.2 To enhance the quality of democracy in India, the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms, and how significant are they in making democracy successful? 2016
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1 “Indifference towards voting rights could weaken democracy.” Considering this statement, discuss the importance of encouraging young voters to register and participate in elections. Evaluate the efforts made by the Election Commission of India and other stakeholders in this regard and propose further steps that can be taken to engage the youth in the democratic process.
SOURCE:
https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/editorial/cynicism-of-youth-bad-for-democracy-2974519
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