I support the intent of those who are pushing for the compulsory voting. However I find taking action against those who have not voted as a wasteful exercise.
Our poulation is 125 crore. Adult population isabout 90 crores.
Suppose in an election, voting is 80 %. That means 18 crore people have not voted. Taking individual action against these 18 crore people is impractical. Even if a strong willed administrator does take the action, he/she is simply foolish. I repeat FOOLISH.
I would propose that we incentivise the voting. On the day of voting no economic activity takes place. Maximum negative impact is on daily wage workers. There is a strong case for giving them minimum wages for that day. Similarly senior citizens should be given same incentive. Young people do not normally start earning before 24 years of age. They will be happy to get a good amount for a sumptuous meal. Principle of equality demands that every one should be entitled to this incentive, with a proviso that one can politely decline it.
What would be the financial implication?
Rs 300 per voter.
If 80 crore voters cast their votes, it would cost Rs 24000 crore rupees.
This is doable.
How to pay?
Let us follow the same route as is envisaged for LPG cylinder subsidy. Link Voter ID to Adhar Card number and to Bank account number. This will lead to achieving another goal of the government - every one having a bank account.
