This refers to the edit “Lining up to vote” (March 6). The recent Assembly elections are indicative of the fact that people are now getting serious about their right to vote. And this perhaps an opportune time for us to give some serious thought to the electoral system. The low voter turnout in elections weakens our democracy and this chronic issue should be addressed without delay. To add more strength and value to the electoral system, a massive campaign should be launched across the country to highlight the importance of voting. This will not only increase the turnout but also lead to significant results in elections.
Those who are of voting age should understand that it is their responsibility to vote in elections without fail. Also, the Indian electoral machinery should be provided with up-to-date records of eligible voters without any howlers.
Only a strong and permanent government at the Centre can shape a strong nation. And it can only be formed when people come out in large numbers and pronounce their verdict on various parties and leaders. We could in fact learn lessons from foreigners who take their right to vote very seriously. It may be noted that French voters turned out in unprecedented numbers (registering a turnout of 84 per cent) to elect their new president in 2007.
P Senthil Saravana Durai, Hyderbad
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