National Voters’ Day: Reforming democracy from the ground up in Manipur

Syed Rafiuddin
Every year on 25 January, India observes National Voters’ Day to mark the founding of the Election Commission of India. While the occasion is often confined to ceremonial programmes and official pledges, its deeper purpose lies in reform—strengthening democratic processes so that every eligible citizen can vote freely, safely, and with dignity. In Manipur, where prolonged social disruption since May 2023 has reshaped everyday civic life, National Voters’ Day must become a moment for serious electoral introspection and corrective action.
“Democracy cannot be meaningful if large sections of citizens are unable to participate due to displacement, fear, or administrative gaps.”
The right to vote is Constitutionally guaranteed, yet its actual exercise depends on accessibility, documentation, and public confidence. In Manipur, displacement, migration to relief camps, and loss of identity papers have created new forms of voter exclusion. Electoral reform in such a context must begin with recognising the changed realities on the ground and adapting systems accordingly.
Electoral rolls are not static lists; they are living records that must reflect population movement and social change. National Voters’ Day should renew focus on continuous and inclusive revision of voter lists, especially in relief camps, temporary settlements, and conflict-affected localities. Mobile enrolment teams, flexible verification mechanisms, and proactive BLO outreach can ensure that no eligible voter is left out. “Electoral reform begins not in capitals, but at polling stations, relief camps, and village.”(To be contd)