Will the Upcoming Indian Election 2024 be free and fair?

Dr. Deepa Biswas

The expectation and scrutiny around the integrity of the political process are evident as India prepares for yet another election cycle. As the election approaches, there are certain to be concerns:

Will it be held in the most impartial and open manner possible?

Will every citizen’s voice be heard and their ballots fairly tallied?

 Analyzing the likelihood of a free and fair election in India necessitates a careful analysis of the numerous variables that influence the electoral he nation has had many elections since achieving independence in 1947, all of which have demonstrated its dedication to democratic government. The process has occasionally been affected by incidents of election fraud and misconduct, so the journey has not been without its difficulties

India has embraced technological innovation in recent years to improve the efficiency and transparency of its election system. Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) and Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are two important innovations that will help to maintain the integrity of the voting process in several nations, like India, where they are extensively utilised, electronic voting machines (EVMs) have been the subject of discussion. EVM supporters claim that they increase efficiency, decrease mistakes, and streamline the voting process. Additionally, they stress how EVMs could reduce instances of booth capture and illegal voting while simultaneously preserving vote confidentiality.
Critics question the security and integrity of EVMs, though. Some contend that election fraud may result from manipulating electronic voting machines. Others bring up concerns about openness and the absence of a paper trail, which makes it challenging to confirm the correctness of the findings.

Legal frameworks, public trust, and technological advances are some of the variables that influence the decision of using digital voting machines (EVMs) in elections. To maintain the integrity of the voting process, election officials must address concerns over the security and transparency of EVMs.

One of the biggest concerns as India gets ready for yet another election is whether or not it will be free and fair. Although there are still issues and worries, there are reasons for cautious optimism because of the nation’s strong institutional structure, technological innovation, and attentive supervision. The legitimacy and integrity of the election process will ultimately depend on how committed political parties, electoral officials, civil society, and the media are to preserving democratic values. India has the chance to confirm its position as the largest democracy in the world in front of the world by holding an inclusive, transparent, and really free election.

 References:

1. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/elections/lok-sabha/india/election-commissions-4m-formula-to-conduct-free-and-fair-lok-sabha-elections-2024/articleshow/108545907.cms?from=mdr
2. https://theprint.in/opinion/india-is-going-to-have-its-least-free-fair-election-in-2024-see-these-5-indicators/2019854/