Question

Choose the right statements regarding elections and voting age in India:

1. The legal voting age was lowered from 21 to 18 by the 61st Amendment in 1989.

2. Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was serving when the 61st Amendment was enacted.

3. Manipur was the first state in India to hold elections based on adult suffrage.

4. Every Indian citizen aged 18 or above can vote without restriction.

• A. 1, 2 and 3 only
• B. 1 and 4 only
• C. 2 and 3 only
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 1, 2 and 3 only

Elections and Voting Age in India

• The 61st Constitutional Amendment Act, 1988, holds significant importance as it lowered the voting age for elections to the Lok Sabha and the Legislative Assemblies of States from 21 years to 18 years.

• This landmark amendment came into force on March 28, 1989. It was enacted to provide an opportunity to the unrepresented youth of the country to become a part of the political process.

• At the time of the 61st Amendment's enactment, Shri Rajiv Gandhi was serving as the Prime Minister of India (1984-1989). His government was instrumental in pushing for this reform to empower younger citizens.

• The princely state of Manipur created history by holding elections based on adult suffrage in 1948, even before India's first general elections (1951-52). This was for the Manipur State Assembly, making it a pioneer in democratic electoral practices in the region.

• While the voting age is 18 years, it's crucial to understand that the right to vote is not entirely without restrictions. Article 326 of the Indian Constitution grants adult suffrage, but it also allows for disqualifications based on non-residence, unsoundness of mind, crime, or corrupt or illegal practice.

• The Representation of the People Act, 1950, and the Representation of the People Act, 1951, lay down detailed provisions regarding these disqualifications, ensuring that the electoral roll is maintained accurately and fairly.

• The concept of 'Universal Adult Suffrage' is enshrined in Article 326 of the Indian Constitution, ensuring that every citizen above the specified age has the right to vote, irrespective of religion, race, caste, sex, or education.

• The Election Commission of India (ECI), established under Article 324 of the Constitution, is responsible for the superintendence, direction, and control of elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President.