Question

What is meant by the term Universal Adult Franchise?

Answer 1

Hint: Article 326 of the Indian Constitution defines “universal adult franchise” as the basis for elections that take place at all levels to elect the government.

Complete answer:
According to the universal Adult Franchise, all citizens who are 18 years and above have the right to vote. Everyone irrespective of their caste, religion, colour, educational background, race and financial conditions are free to vote.
In a democracy, a universal adult franchise is the most important element. It is based on the idea of equality and impartiality. It also states that every adult citizen of the country, irrespective of their wealth and the social group she/he belongs to, has the right to vote for their preferred candidate or political party. The Indian Constitution has adopted the universal adult franchise as a basis of elections to the Lok Sabha and the state legislative assemblies. The members in Lok Sabha are directly elected by the people. These members are representatives of a particular territorial constituency. The people of that constituency practice their right to vote to elect their leaders who run the country.

Note: In order to ensure free and fair elections, the constitution-makers incorporated Part XV (Articles.324-329) in the Indian constitution. It gives Parliament the right to make laws and regulate the electoral process.