The People’s Representation Act, which was first enacted in 1951, has shaped the democratic procedures that oversee the largest democracy in the world by acting as the cornerstone of India’s election system. But as India develops in the twenty-first century, it becomes more and more clear that reforms are needed, especially with regard to the minimum age needed to run for office. The clause that requires candidates to be at least 25 years old deserves reexamination in order to promote greater diversity, participation, and involvement of young people in politics.
India is experiencing a demographic dividend due to its young population, as a large proportion of its people are between the ages of 18 and 35. However, the existing 25-year-old minimum age limit for running for office is out of step with the goals and possibilities of this particular group. The Act unintentionally leaves out a significant number of capable and politically savvy people who would like to help build the country by increasing the minimum age to 25. My main motive to write this article is that I had also filed a Public Interest Litigation in the High court of Punjab and Haryana and was hoping for the implementation of this issue, similarly parliamentary standing committee also published the same report which was led by Sushil Kumar Modi.
The government’s commitment to young empowerment would be demonstrated by amending the People’s Representation Act to decrease the minimum age of contesting elections to 21 or even 18. This would also be a calculated step towards promoting a more inclusive and representative democracy. This is the reason that these changes are essential:
First off, reducing the age requirement to run for office would give young people more influence and allow them to actively engage in politics at an earlier age. Young leaders who get involved in politics early on have the opportunity to provide new ideas, creative solutions, and a greater comprehension of current affairs. Reviving India’s political scene and meeting the changing requirements of its diverse people depend on this influx of youth energy and drive.
Second, by lowering the minimum age limit, youth political engagement would increase and the government’s relationship with its youngest citizens would be strengthened. Giving young people the opportunity to run for office not only increases their sense of responsibility and ownership but also fortifies the democratic fabric by guaranteeing that the government is genuinely representative of the people it represents. Furthermore, since younger people are disproportionately affected by important concerns like education, unemployment, and climate change, increased youth representation can aid in addressing these problems.
Thirdly, lowering the age requirement to run for office in the People’s Representation Act would bring India’s election rules into line with international norms and best practices. Numerous democracies worldwide have lowered the age of candidature in response to realizing the value of young people being involved in politics. India may show its dedication to democratic values and its willingness to support the ambitions of its youth by adopting a similar approach.
Lowering the age requirement to run for office, however, may present certain issues and difficulties that must be recognised and resolved. Younger candidates may be criticized for lacking the maturity and experience necessary for efficient government. Strong systems for training, capacity-building, and mentoring can be implemented to help young leaders in their political careers in order to lessen this effect. Strict qualifying requirements, such as a clean criminal record and a minimum level of education, can also assist guarantee that candidates regardless of age have the necessary integrity and abilities to hold public office.
In summary, lowering the voting age requirement in the People’s Representation Act of 1951 is a progressive move that will help India become a more dynamic, inclusive, and representative democracy and I’m writing this before fresh start of general elections of 2024 but where after five years in elections of 2029 we will see 33% reservations of women and also hoping to see this amendment in coming years or let some newly chosen MP introduce private member bill on this issue. India can take advantage of its demographic dividend and create a more promising future for future generations by encouraging young people to get involved in politics. It’s time to redefine political leadership in India and to recognise the potential of the country’s youth.