Noting that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has made numerous efforts to ensure that “no voter is left behind”, President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday said voting is a reflection of citizens’ faith in the democratic process of elections, adding that public participation gives practical shape to the spirit of democracy at the grassroots level.
Addressing the 16th National Voters’ Day Celebrations in New Delhi,
She said many programmes have been conducted to increase voter awareness.
“This year’s theme, chosen by the Election Commission, “My India, My Vote: Indian Citizen at the heart of Indian Democracy,” reflects the spirit of our democracy and underscores the importance of the right to vote in our democratic system,” the President said.
“The strength of our democracy lies not only in the sheer size of voters but also in the depth of the democratic spirit. Even the oldest voters, divyang voters and those living in remote areas exercise their right to vote,” she said.
The President appreciated the aware voters and all those involved in the election machinery, under the leadership of the Election Commission, for providing so many inspiring examples of exercising this franchise.
“Voting is not merely a political expression. It is a reflection of citizens’ faith in the democratic process of elections. It is also a means for citizens to express their aspirations. The right to vote, available to all adult citizens without discrimination, gives concrete expression to our constitutional ideals of political and social justice and equality,” Murmu said.
“The ‘One Person, One Vote’ system enshrined in our Constitution was a result of our Constitution makers’ firm faith in the wisdom of the common people. The voters of our country have vindicated their faith, and Indian democracy has earned respect on the world stage as an extraordinary example,” she said.
The President said that while the right to vote is important, it is equally important that all adult citizens exercise their franchise, keeping in mind their constitutional duties.
She expressed confidence that all voters, free from temptation, ignorance, misinformation, propaganda, and prejudice, will strengthen “our electoral system through the power of their conscience”.
Since 2011, National Voters’ Day has been observed annually on January 25 to commemorate the foundation day of the Election Commission of India. This event aims to underline the centrality of the voter, raise electoral awareness among citizens and inspire their active participation in the democratic process.