Page 172 - General Election

63. Empowering Inclusive Democracy: ECI's

Commitment to Accessible Elections

The Founding Fathers of the nation embedded laudable features in our
Constitution, particularly in Part XV Elections. This part outlines the provisions for

an Independent Election Commission, Universal Adult Suffrage, maintenance of
electoral rolls, and other essentials for conducting free, fair, and inclusive elections.

These features have contributed to a vibrant and rich democratic culture in India,
fostering faith in the electoral exercise and upholding the basic tenet of 'No Voter
should be left behind.'

Article 324 of the Constitution empowers the Election Commission to ensure free
and fair elections. Article 325 ensures that no person is ineligible for the electoral
roll based on religion, race, caste, sex, or any of these. Whereas article 326

establishes Universal Adult Suffrage as the basis of elections. These constitutional
provisions obligate the Election Commission of India (ECI) to conduct free, fair, and
inclusive elections, emphasizing adult suffrage.

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