Mission Surya – Day 1: Voting Rights in India
Constitutional provisions, Representation of the People Acts, Universal Adult Franchise, National Voters’ Day and eligibility conditions. Highly important for UPSC Prelims 2026.
15 February 2026
Today's session focuses on Voting Rights in India, an important topic from Indian Polity frequently asked in UPSC Prelims. The topic becomes even more relevant as 2026 marks 15 years of National Voters’ Day (2011–2026).
Core Concepts
The right to vote in India is a statutory right, not a Fundamental Right.
Article 326 provides for elections based on adult suffrage.
The 61st Constitutional Amendment Act (1988) reduced the voting age from 21 to 18.
Representation of the People Act, 1950 deals with electoral rolls.
Representation of the People Act, 1951 governs the conduct of elections.
National Voters’ Day
• Observed annually on 25 January.
• First celebrated in 2011.
• Organised by the Election Commission of India.
• 25 January is also the foundation day of the Election Commission of India (1950).
Concept Illustration
Quick Revision for Prelims
- • The right to vote in India is a statutory right, not a Fundamental Right.
- • Article 326 provides for elections based on adult suffrage.
- • The 61st Constitutional Amendment Act (1988) reduced the voting age from 21 to 18.