Elections on the basis of adult suffrage – Art. 326 of Constitution of India

Elections to the House of the People and to the Legislative Assemblies of States to be on the basis of adult suffrage – The elections to the House of the People and to the Legislative Assembly of every State shall be on the basis of adult suffrage; that is to say, every person who is a citizen of India and who is not less than eighteen (18+) years of age on such date as may be fixed in that behalf by or under any law made by the appropriate Legislature and is not otherwise disqualified under this constitution or any law made by the appropriate Legislature on the ground of non-residence, unsoundness of mind, crime or corrupt or illegal practice, shall be entitled to be registered as a voter at any such election.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)

 

1. Which Article of the Indian Constitution provides that elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies shall be on the basis of adult suffrage?
Ans. Article 326.

 

2. What is the minimum age of a citizen to be eligible to vote under Article 326?
Ans. 18 years.

 

3. Name the two bodies whose elections are explicitly mentioned to be on the basis of adult suffrage under Article 326.
Ans. Lok Sabha (House of the People) and State Legislative Assemblies.

 

4. What type of suffrage does Article 326 establish?
Ans. Universal adult suffrage.

 

5. Under which part of the Constitution is Article 326 placed?
Ans. Part XV (Elections).

 

6. What do you understand by “adult suffrage” in the context of Article 326?
Ans: Refer to age and universal right to vote.

 

7. Mention two important conditions that can disqualify a person from being registered as a voter under Article 326.
Ans: Non‑residence, unsoundness of mind, crime or corrupt/illegal practice.

 

6. How does Article 326 promote political equality?
Ans: Equal voting rights regardless of caste, religion, gender, wealth, etc.

 

7. What change in voting age was introduced by the 61st Amendment in relation to Article 326?
Ans: Earlier 21 years, now 18 years.

 

8. Why is Article 326 considering a cornerstone of Indian democracy?
Ans: It ensures people’s participation and government by consent.