Democracy relies heavily on voting as it allows citizens to influence government operations and policy formulation. Problems, like names not being on the list of voters, can keep people from voting, which is bad for democracy. Numerous places during the Lok Sabha elections have mentioned this problem. One of these is Pune, in Maharashtra. Many voters, including prominent figures such as Air Chief Marshal Pradeep Vasant Naik's wife, discovered their names were absent from the voter list.
The 2019 Indian Lok Sabha Elections: A Case Study
Many Indian voters couldn't cast their votes in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections because their names weren't on the voter list. Renowned individuals in Pune, Maharashtra, such as Air Chief Marshal Pradeep Vasant Naik, reported this issue. Even though voting places had the right IDs and voter registration forms, a lot of people were turned away.
According to news reports, Pune alone added and removed about 2.39 lakh names from the voting rolls between January 23 and April 15, 2019. This streamlined the voting stations to ensure each electronic voting machine (EVM) could handle the required number of votes. However, this process of rationalisation caused a lot of misunderstanding and left many people without a voice.
Common Issues Faced by Voters
1. Unexplained Removal of Names: Voters, such as Air Chief Marshal Naik's wife, found their names inexplicably missing from the list despite having voted in previous elections.
2. Discrepancies in the Electoral Roll: Instances where incorrect photos appeared next to voters' names or names were completely missing, as in the case of Sanjay Danait, who found a woman's picture next to his name.
3. Shifting of Polling Stations: Names were sometimes shifted to different polling stations without proper communication, leading to confusion among voters.
Reasons for Missing Names on the Voters' List
Administrative Errors
1. Data Entry Mistakes: Errors during the data entry process can result in names being misspelt, leading to discrepancies in the voters' list.
2. Failure to Update Records: If changes in voters' status, such as moving to a new address, are not updated in time, their names may be omitted.
Rationalisation of Voting Stations
To manage the load on EVMs and ensure efficient voting processes, election officials may reassign voters to different polling stations. However, poor communication can sometimes occur during this process, leading to confusion.
Legal and Procedural Reasons
1. Death: We remove deceased individuals from the voters' list.
2. Duplication: To prevent double voting, we identify and remove duplicate names.
3. Non-Residency: Individuals who have moved out of the constituency or country but are no longer residents may have their names removed.
4. Disqualification: Legal disqualifications, such as criminal convictions, can also lead to removal from the list.
Fraud and Malfeasance
Despite their rarity, we cannot completely rule out instances of electoral fraud, which involves the deliberate removal of names to manipulate election outcomes.
Steps to Take If Your Name Is Missing from the Voters' List
Immediate Steps on Election Day
1. Check nearby booths: Sometimes, officials may shift names to nearby booths. It is advisable to check with the officials if your name appears at another polling station within the same locality.
2. Use Online Resources: Use the Election Commission's website or helplines to check the latest voters' list and confirm your polling station.
3. Present Proof of Identity: To the polling station, carry multiple forms of identification, as well as any voter slips or notifications you have received.
Post-Election Actions
1. File a Complaint: If you discover that the Election Commission has incorrectly deleted your name, you should file a formal complaint.
2. Submit Form 8: Use this form to rectify any errors in the voters' list, including name, photograph, age, or address. You can fill out this form to re-register your name for future elections.
3. Interact with Local Electoral Offices: Make a visit to the local electoral office to confirm the correct addition of your name to the voters' list and to rectify any discrepancies.
Long-Term Measures
1. Regularly Verify Your Voter Information: Periodically check your voter registration status, especially ahead of upcoming elections.
2. Participate in Voter Verification Drives: Engage in local voter verification drives organised by electoral authorities to ensure your details are accurate and up-to-date.
3. Stay informed about changes to voting procedures: Keep an eye out for any changes in voting procedures or polling station allocations that may affect your ability to vote.
The Legal Framework and Voter Rights
The Constitutional Right to Vote
Article 326 of the Indian Constitution enshrines the right to vote, mandating adult suffrage for elections to the House of People and Legislative Assembly of States. This ensures that every citizen with a sound mind and a legal voting age has the right to vote.
Election Commission's Role
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is responsible for the preparation, revision, and maintenance of the voters' list. It guarantees the updating of the electoral roll and the inclusion of all eligible citizens.
Legal Recourse for Voters
Voters who find their names missing from the list can seek legal recourse through the following means:
1. Electoral Registration Officer (ERO): Submit a formal complaint to the ERO for rectification.
2. State Election Commission: Approach the State Election Commission for redressal.
3. Judicial Remedies: In extreme cases, voters can approach the courts to seek a writ of mandamus directing the Election Commission to rectify the voters' list.
Conclusion
The issue of missing names from the voters' list is a significant challenge that undermines the democratic process. It is crucial for electoral authorities to ensure that the electoral rolls are accurate and inclusive. Voters must be proactive in verifying their registration status and taking the necessary steps to rectify any discrepancies well before election day. The electorate and authorities can collectively uphold the integrity of the electoral process, guaranteeing the inclusion of every eligible citizen's voice in the democratic process.
mage Source: Multiple Agencies
Inputs from Agencies
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