The third phase of voting for the Lok Sabha elections is going on. Voting is going on on 93 seats in 11 states. When you go to the polling booth to vote, it is important to keep many things in mind, otherwise action can be taken.
Which party did you vote for?
The Constitution of India gives the right to vote to people above 18 years of age. Along with this right, a citizen also has some responsibilities like maintaining the secrecy of voting. For this, Part 39 of the Election Conduct Rules 1961 deals with the secrecy of voting. As per the notification issued by the Election Commission, every voter is expected to maintain the secrecy of voting. If anyone violates, he can be stopped from voting and such a person can be booked under section 128. The Election Commission has advised voters not to tell anyone who they have voted for.
Can polling agents share voting information?
Then the question arises whether the officials present at the polling booth give information about voting? In this case, an officer, clerk, agent or other person appointed to record or count the votes at an election as per Section 128(1) of the RP Act. The secrecy of voting is maintained by them. If a person violates privacy then he can be punished under Section 128(2). Violation of the secrecy of election is punishable with imprisonment of up to three months or fine or both. Also, if a voting agent discloses voting information by reason of law or for an official purpose, this rule does not apply to such officer, clerk, agent, or other person.
What does the Supreme Court say about this?
The Supreme Court, which is hearing this case, described the secrecy of voting as part of the fundamental right to freedom of expression. A division bench of Justices DY Chandrachud and MR Shah said that secrecy is essential in Lok Sabha or state assembly elections and in democracies across the world it is emphasized that voters should vote without any fear or intimidation.
What will happen if name is not in the voter list?
People above 18 years of age have the right to vote but for this their name must be in the voter list. If the name is not in the voter list then why can’t 18 year olds vote? The voter has to add his/her name to the list to be registered. The form is filled and submitted to the Electoral Registration Officer of your area.
