Globally, several countries, including Germany, Austria, Malta, Estonia, Argentina, Nicaragua, have lowered their voting age from 18 to 16 years.
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Recently United kingdom also announced plans to reduce the voting age from 18 to 16.
In India, a Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2020 was proposed to amend Article 326 to reduce the voting age from 18 to 17 years.
It was a private member's bill.
Constitutional provisions related to voting age in India
Article 326 provides for universal adult suffrage for every citizen who is not less than 18 years of age.
India reduced the voting age from 21 to 18 years through 61st Constitutional Amendment in 1988.
Right to Vote is a statutory right that can be amended by ordinary law of the Parliament.
Arguments in favour of Lowering of Age for voting
Arguments in against of Lowering of Age for voting
Cognitive Maturity: A significant number of experts contend that 16-year-olds possess sufficient cognitive and critical thinking capacities for independent political decisions.
Intergenerational Equity: While those under 18 are currently excluded in most countries, adults are allowed to vote without maximum age limits. This creates an inherent bias, that is, political systems that favor an older electorate and act against forward-looking policy-making.
Broaden election manifestos: Lowering the voting age would also broaden the election manifestos with a greater focus on child rights, quality education, and gender justice.
Increased Political Engagement and Representation: Lowering the voting age could increase political engagement among youth, fostering a habit of voting early in life and strengthening democracy.
Perceived Lack of Maturity and Knowledge: Critics argue adolescents often lack cognitive ability, adequate information, or political engagement, making them prone to manipulation in political decision-making.
Low Turnout: In 2024 lok sabha elections, under 40% of 18–19-year-olds registered to vote
Inconsistency with Other Age Thresholds: Lowering the voting age may spark debates on reducing other legal age limits for marriage, alcohol purchase, military service, or elections.
Logistical and Administrative Challenges: Expanding the electorate to include 16–17-year-olds would require large-scale voter registration drives, awareness campaigns, and infrastructure adjustments, increasing costs and operational complexity.
Conclusion
In moving forward with the debate on lowering the voting age, it is essential that advocacy efforts are grounded in evidence and involve adolescents in the process. Early and comprehensive civic education in schools, along with ongoing registration efforts, can enhance political engagement and ensure broader participation among young and transient populations.
