April 19, 2024
India holds the record for conducting the largest democratic exercise in the world. During the 2019 general elections, over 900 million people were eligible to vote, making it the largest ever in history.
In India, voter identification is typically done using a voter ID card, also known as the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC). What's fascinating is that these cards aren't just used for voting; they also serve as a widely accepted form of identification for various other purposes.
To ensure that even the most remote citizens can exercise their voting rights, India has provisions for remote voting. For example, in certain regions like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where access to polling stations may be challenging, special arrangements such as postal ballots are made.
In 2013, India introduced the "Right to Reject" option in elections. This means that voters can choose to reject all candidates if they find none of them suitable. The Election Commission implemented this as a way to encourage transparency and accountability among political parties.
Despite its vast population, India has seen impressive voter turnout rates. In some elections, turnout has exceeded 80% in certain states, showcasing a high level of civic engagement among its citizens.