The 2024 Lok Sabha elections in India are a decisive event, showcasing the strength of the nation’s democratic spirit. This election is not merely a political occurrence but a celebration of the democratic principles cherished worldwide.
The Election machinery is at the forefront, ensuring inclusivity and integrating technology to enhance the electoral process. The ‘vote-from-home’ initiative is a significant step forward, removing obstacles for the elderly and disabled, and marking these elections as one of the most accessible in history.
As India gears up for the 2024 general elections, the world watches in awe as the largest democracy on Earth undertakes a monumental exercise in electoral franchise. The 18th Lok Sabha elections, scheduled from April 19 to June 1, are not just a testament to India’s enduring commitment to democratic values but also a showcase of electoral innovation and inclusivity.
When compared to the most developed nations, India’s electoral process stands out for its sheer scale and complexity. With over 97 crore eligible voters, the Indian elections dwarf those of countries like the United States, where the total number of registered voters was approximately 200 million in their 2020 elections. The logistical prowess required to conduct the elections, spanning seven phases over 44 days, is unparalleled.
The digital advancements, in the form of applications and online platforms to close the gap between voters and the voting process is another example of how technology is being leveraged to enhance democratic engagement and ensure a more inclusive and accessible electoral system. Tools like the Voter Portal, Saksham App, and KYC App are instrumental in simplifying voter registration, disseminating candidate information, and enriching the voting experience with knowledge.
Education and awareness have been intensified through the ECI’s SVEEP program, focusing on voter literacy. The adoption of international training modules and procedures for EVMs and VVPAT systems ensures the integrity and significance of every vote. Ultimately, the essence of the elections is in the electorate’s hands. It’s a nationwide call to action for all eligible individuals to participate actively in the polls.
While the electoral administration prepared a smooth electoral framework, it’s the voters who vitalize the process. With a staggering 96.88 crore registered voters, the Indian electorate is a formidable entity. The demographic breakdown—49.72 crore male voters, 47.15 crore female voters, and 48,044 transgender voters—highlights the dedication to inclusivity, including 88.35 lakh registered Persons with Disabilities (PWD) and 1.85 crore senior citizens aged 85 and above.
The logistical setup for these elections is equally remarkable. About 10.5 lakh polling stations, manned by 1.5 lakh officials and security personnel, will be operational, with 55 lakh electronic voting machines ready to facilitate a seamless voting experience.
Innovations like the postal ballot and ABILITY EXPRESS have significantly empowered voters with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in shaping the country’s future. This narrative of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections tells the inspiring story of a country moving towards a future that is more inclusive, informed, and participatory. It’s a story that influences decision-makers, the public, and other countries that see India as a model of electoral innovation.
How is it that India’s voting process is so successful?
It’s a short-term, specific task that shows the effectiveness of the administration, similar to the success seen in big projects like the national census and the Aadhaar program, which has registered 1300 plus million people. The recent Mars mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) stands as a demonstration to the remarkable achievements that can be realized when government personnel are assigned prestigious tasks and held accountable to rigorous public standards.
Accomplished with cost-effective resource management, the mission’s success is reflective of the same efficiency and commitment that define our national electoral processes. The lessons distilled from India’s electoral process are universal in their applicability.
They speak of the power of clear, well-defined objectives and the transformative impact of transparency. When a system doesn’t allow discretionary judgment, it becomes more efficient and less corrupt.
As India approaches another important election, the way the election is conducted could show how to improve government administration. It’s a straightforward, open, and fair system that could make the bureaucracy stronger and more honest if used in other areas. The winner of the next election should see the election method as not only about voting but also as a great example of how to run things well.
BY Dr.Shakil Bhat
Dr. Shakil Bhat is currently working as Block Development Officer, Shopian, and is involved in the electoral process for the General Elections of 2024)