Voting Abroad in Indian Elections ? Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) | #AskJP | FDR India

Summary

The speaker addresses the issue of NRI (Non-Resident Indian) voting rights, highlighting that while Indian citizens abroad can vote, they must return to India to do so. The speaker suggests implementing postal ballots for NRIs, similar to military personnel and election workers, and explores the idea of downloadable ballots or electronic voting for overseas citizens. The speaker also advocates for dual citizenship, arguing that it would benefit India by keeping strong ties with the Indian diaspora and enhancing their contribution to the country both politically and economically.

Takeaways

• ✉️ Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) do have voting rights under Indian law, but they must return to India to cast their vote, making it impractical for most.
• 🌍 Many other countries, like Britain, provide more flexible options for overseas voting, such as polling booths abroad or electronic voting.
• 📮 In India, only servicemen, armed forces personnel, and election officials can vote through postal ballots, but there's no reason NRIs can't be granted the same right.
• 🖨️ A feasible option for NRI voting is allowing them to download postal ballots online, print, mark, and send them back, reducing delays and logistical challenges.
• 💻 While electronic voting for NRIs is a possibility, it would require strong safeguards, as online systems are more vulnerable than the current electronic voting machines used in India.
• 🔒 There are concerns about the safety of electronic voting machines, but after years of use, they are generally trusted in India, though online voting may demand even higher security measures.
• 🧪 Introducing electronic voting for NRIs on a pilot basis before rolling it out nationwide could be a cautious and practical approach.
• 🇮🇳 Many democratic countries, including neighbors like Pakistan and Bangladesh, allow dual citizenship, but India does not, which is seen as a loss of committed citizens.
• 💔 NRIs often have to choose between citizenship in the country where they’ve built a life and their love for India, which could be mitigated by allowing dual citizenship.
• 🔄 Allowing dual citizenship would strengthen political, economic, and social ties with NRIs and people of Indian origin, making them more invested in India’s progress.

Q & A

What is the main issue raised in the script regarding NRI voting rights?

The main issue raised is that non-resident Indians (NRIs), despite having voting rights, must physically come to India to vote, which is impractical for many of them. The speaker suggests more accessible solutions like postal ballots or electronic voting.

What are the two classes of people currently allowed to vote by postal ballot in India?

Currently, only two classes of people are allowed to vote by postal ballot: members of the armed forces and government employees involved in election duties, including security personnel and police.

Why is postal voting for NRIs not currently a feasible option?

Postal voting is not feasible for NRIs because of the logistical challenge. The time frame between finalizing the ballot paper and the election is too short for mailing the ballots internationally and receiving them back in time.

What solution does the speaker propose to make postal voting possible for NRIs?

The speaker suggests allowing NRIs to download their ballot paper electronically. After printing and marking it, they could mail it back to the returning officer, simplifying the process and reducing delays.

What concerns are associated with introducing electronic voting for NRIs?

The primary concern with electronic voting is the need for greater safeguards to prevent tampering, especially since this would involve online systems, unlike the current electronic voting machines (EVMs) used in India, which are not networked.

Why does the speaker believe introducing electronic voting for NRIs could be beneficial?

The speaker believes that electronic voting, with appropriate safeguards, could make it easier for NRIs to participate in elections. It could be introduced on a pilot basis to test its feasibility before expanding it nationwide.

How has India’s political system responded to the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs)?

India's political system has largely accepted the safety and reliability of EVMs, although there were initial doubts and challenges. Over time, EVMs have gained trust, and there is no credible evidence of serious tampering.

What is the speaker's stance on dual citizenship for Indians?

The speaker advocates for allowing dual citizenship, as it would help India retain the loyalty of NRIs and people of Indian origin. This would benefit India politically, economically, and socially by maintaining their connection to the country.

Which countries does the speaker cite as examples that allow dual citizenship?

The speaker mentions countries like Britain, France, Germany, Japan, and the United States, which allow dual citizenship and suggests that India could follow their example.

What is the broader benefit the speaker sees in allowing NRIs to vote and hold dual citizenship?

The speaker believes that allowing NRIs to vote and hold dual citizenship would help improve the nature of Indian politics, reducing the influence of money power and other negative forces. It would also strengthen India's global connections and economic prospects.