🗳️ Article 326 of the Indian Constitution
Title: Elections to the House of the People and to the Legislative Assemblies of States to be on the basis of adult suffrage
📘 Purpose:
Article 326 provides the foundation for universal adult franchise in India. It ensures that every Indian citizen aged 18 or above has the right to vote in elections to the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the State Legislative Assemblies.
🔍 Key Provisions of Article 326:
| Provision | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Elections shall be based on adult suffrage | Every Indian citizen aged 18 or above can vote |
| Eligible voters | Citizens who are: |
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Not otherwise disqualified under Constitution or law
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Of sound mind
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Not convicted for certain crimes or corrupt practices |
| Applies to elections for | - Lok Sabha (House of the People) -
State Legislative Assemblies |
| Voting right is universal, subject to limitations | Disqualifications can be made by law (e.g., unsound mind, criminal conviction, non-residence) |
📊 Summary Chart: Article 326 – Adult Suffrage
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Voting Age | 18 years and above |
| Applies To | Elections to Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies |
| Based On | Universal adult suffrage |
| Disqualifications Allowed | Based on non-residence, unsound mind, criminal conviction, etc. |
| Discrimination Prohibited | ✅ Yes, aligns with Article 325 — no bias based on religion, race, caste, or sex |
✅ Real-Life Example:
| Scenario | Allowed to Vote? | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| 19-year-old Indian citizen living in Delhi | ✅ Yes | Meets age and citizenship requirements |
| 22-year-old convicted of electoral fraud | ❌ No (Temporarily disqualified) | Disqualified under electoral law |
| 25-year-old woman denied vote due to gender | ❌ No (Violation of Article 325 & 326) | Gender-based exclusion not allowed |
🧠 Why Article 326 Matters:
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Empowers every citizen to participate in democracy
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Forms the basis of free and fair elections
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Embodies the principle of equality in political rights
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