The Monumental Journey of Indian Elections
The Monumental Journey of Indian Elections India's elections, often referred to as the largest democratic exercise in human history, have undergone a remarkable evolution since the country's independence. This colossal process, which involves millions of voters, has become a symbol of India's vibrant democracy and a source of national pride. 1 3 The Early Years: The first general elections in 1951-52 marked the beginning of India's tryst with democracy. Despite the immense challenges of illiteracy, poverty, and logistical hurdles, the Election Commission of India (ECI) successfully conducted the polls, setting the stage for future elections. 3 Expanding Electorate: Over the years, the Indian electorate has witnessed a staggering growth, reflecting the country's commitment to inclusive democracy. From around 17.3 crore voters in the first election, the number has swelled to an impressive 91.2 crore in the 2019 general elections, making it the largest democratic exe