What is Universal Adult Franchise? Meaning, and Importance

India is the biggest democracy in the world. But, what really makes it special? It is simple that every adult citizen in the nation has an equal right and equal say in choosing the government. In India, irrespective of your caste, religion, education or income, your vote is equally valuable. This concept is referred to as a Universal Adult Franchise. Let's learn about it, and why it is important 

What is the Universal Adult Franchise?

Under the Universal Adult Franchise, every adult, irrespective of his/her gender, religion, caste, class, economic status or literacy, is entitled to vote in elections. No discrimination on the basis of caste/religion or gender and based on education or income. The basic rule is one person, one vote.

As per NCERT, the term "franchise" means the right to vote granted by the Constitution and the Government. Another word you may hear for it is "suffrage" which means the same thing. The Indian Constitution protects this right through Article 326.

Was Voting Always for Everyone?

The answer is No. Before Independence, only 13 percent of Indians were allowed to vote. The rest had no say in choosing their rulers. At the time of Independence the makers of the Constitution took a bold and historic decision that every adult citizen irrespective of his/her status, literate or illiterate would get one equal vote.

This was quite a bold step. The literacy rate of India was barely 14 per cent in 1947. Some believed that only educated citizens should be allowed to vote. However, the Framers of the Constitution's Framers disagreed. They felt that all people had an equal voice in a democracy.

Further, India was also one of the countries in the world to ensure voting rights for women from the beginning. For comparison, women were first granted voting rights in Switzerland in 1971. 

The initial voting age in India was 21 years old. It was reduced to 18 years in 1988, thus allowing millions of young Indians to enter the democratic process.

Why is Universal Adult Franchise Important?

It is the basis of a good democracy. Here is why it is important: 

Equality: All citizens are treated equally.

Everyone's voice matters: People have a say in addressing the problems that occur near them as well as on the national level by choosing who represents them. 

Accountability: Elected officials are transparent in their actions. Citizens can vote them out at the next election if they don't perform well.

Power to decide your future: People select the future that they want, and who will represent them.

How Does Voting Work in India?

Since 1950, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has conducted all elections and continues to do so. It fixes the dates for elections, registers political parties, monitors the conduct of elections and enforces the Model Code of Conduct. 

The Universal Adult Franchise is not just a right, but is a duty as well. By voting you become someone contributing to the nation. The best protection of democracy is an informed and aware voter. It begins with asking the right questions and casting a responsible vote.