President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday urged Indian citizens to exercise their right to vote with wisdom, shunning allurement, prejudice, and misinformation, in order to reinforce the country’s democratic foundations. Addressing the 16th National Voters’ Day event in New Delhi, she also praised women voters for their active participation in elections across the nation.

Highlighting the significance of the occasion, Murmu noted that National Voters’ Day has been celebrated for the past 16 years to mark the foundation of the Election Commission, which was established on January 25, 1950, a day before India became a republic. She emphasised that voting is both a constitutional right and a civic duty, reflecting citizens’ faith in the democratic process.

The President stressed that the strength of Indian democracy lies not just in the number of voters, but in the depth of democratic spirit among citizens. She lauded the participation of elderly, differently-abled, and remote-area voters, noting that such engagement ensures democracy reaches every corner of the country.

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Murmu added that public participation gives practical shape to democratic ideals at the grassroots level. The Election Commission’s efforts, including Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, aim to ensure that no eligible voter is left out and no ineligible person is included, strengthening the credibility of India’s electoral system.

Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted the importance of responsible voting. Modi underlined that being a voter is not just a constitutional privilege but a duty that allows citizens to shape the country’s future. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal cited “One Person, One Vote, One Value” as the cornerstone of Indian democracy.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge echoed the call to protect the independence of institutions like the Election Commission, warning against threats such as vote theft and unplanned electoral revisions. He said National Voters’ Day is a reminder that free, fair, and fearless elections are essential for India’s democracy to not merely survive, but thrive.

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