New Delhi: In a landmark verdict on India's electoral system, the Supreme Court on Friday recognised the right to negative vote for the electorate in the country. Directing the Election Commission of India to have a 'none of the above' button on electronic voting machines (EVMs) and ballot papers which can be used by the voters to reject all the candidates contesting elections in a constituency, the Supreme Court also said that secrecy of vote where 'none of the above' is exercised should be maintained.
Members from almost all political parties have welcomed the Supreme Court ruling. CPM leader D Raja said, "People should participate in elections. They are getting an added choice now."
Bharatiya Janata Party leader Balbir Punj said, "Its a welcome step buy the Supreme Court. An additional option is now available with the voters. People who believe in democracy will welcome the decision," BJP leader Balbir Punj said.
Aam Aadmi Party member Shazia Ilmi also echoed the same sentiment and said, "Its important for people to have a right to reject candidates. This will reflect the will of people. There is a lot of apathy within the poeple. Right now money and proximity to senior party members is needed to contest elections, this move will bring a change leading to an opportunity for deserving candidates to contest polls."
Though AAP member Arving Kejriwal said that the battle is yet to be fought. The real effect will be when the elections are cancelled based on this voting.
The election commission has also been advocating the need for a negative vote. Calling the move a welcome development, former election commissioner Naveen Chawla said, "people will be encouraged to register their right to vote even if it is for none of the candidates who are contesting the elections."
This however, remains to be seen as to how soon will this be implemented. "This process will take time to come into effect. The machines having the option also need to be prepared," Chawla said.
The order comes in response to a petition filed by People's Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL). PUCL Lawyer Sanjay Parekh expressed happiness at the verdict that has gone in their favour. "The ruling can bring a democratic change in the system.
Though he maintained that the existing law does not say anything about the effect majority of voters register a 'negative vote'. "It is only a message that will be delivered by the voters to the political parties to eliminate leaders with tainted records from their parties," Parekh said.
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