The Rajya Sabha recently debated a significant proposal: lowering the minimum age for contesting elections from 25 to 21 years. This proposal, which could change the face of Indian politics, is being considered as part of a broader effort to engage more young voters and infuse fresh perspectives into the political landscape. According to Article 84(b) of the Constitution of India, the current minimum age to become a candidate for the Lok Sabha election is 25 years. Similarly, Article 173(b) of the Constitution and Section 36(2) of the Representation of the People Act set the same age for candidates of the Legislative Assemblies. But what impact could such a change have, and how do young people feel about this potential shift?
The Rationale Behind the Proposal
The government’s interest in lowering the minimum age to 21 stems from the desire to involve the youth more directly in governance. With a substantial portion of the population under 30, this move could lead to greater representation of younger voices in decision-making processes. Proponents argue that younger candidates may bring in new ideas, energy, and a modern outlook on issues that affect the younger generation. Additionally, they believe that engaging youth in politics early could lead to a more vibrant and responsive democracy.
Potential Impacts of Lowering the Age Limit
Lowering the age for contesting elections could have far-reaching effects on the political landscape of India. Here are some possible outcomes:
- Increased Youth Participation: Allowing younger candidates to run for office could significantly increase youth participation in politics. This might lead to policies that are more attuned to the needs and aspirations of the younger generation, such as education reform, job creation, and digital innovation.
- Diverse Representation: Younger politicians might better represent the diverse and dynamic perspectives of the youth. Their involvement could lead to more innovative solutions to modern challenges, including climate change, technology regulation, and social justice.
- Challenges of Inexperience: On the flip side, younger candidates may lack the experience and maturity necessary for effective governance. Managing complex political dynamics, understanding the nuances of policy-making, and dealing with seasoned politicians could be daunting for a 21-year-old.
- Shift in Political Culture: A younger political cohort could bring about a cultural shift, making politics more accessible and relatable to the youth. However, it could also introduce challenges, such as the potential for impulsive decision-making or a lack of respect for established protocols.
Voices from the Youth: Survey Insights
Youth Incorporated conducted a survey to gather college students’ opinions on this proposal. The responses were diverse, reflecting both optimism and concern about the potential change. Here’s what some of the students had to say:
- Maturity and Experience Concerns: One student expressed, “I think being 21 and in politics is a bit too much because students would’ve just completed their graduation. And I think participating in something so serious and huge should be done wisely and with a lot of understanding and maturity. 21 is an age where most people start to realize their purpose in life and figure out things. So, I think 25 is the perfect age to hand over an entire territory to someone.” This perspective highlights concerns about whether young candidates have the life experience and wisdom necessary for political leadership.
- Decision-Making Risks: Another student noted, “I think the main problem can occur when youth is not educated enough and may take decisions merely on sudden factors. Also, they have to take decisions with a long-term view, which is necessary as authorities only act when there is outrage otherwise, they side with the cases.” This comment points to the potential risks of impulsive decision-making and the importance of a long-term perspective in governance.
- Influence and Pressure: The vulnerability of youth to external influences was also a concern: “The youth nowadays is very fragile when it comes to opinion forming. So I think the main challenge that will arise is the stupid decisions some may make in light of seeing each other. Usually, youth just do whatever their surrounding does.” This view suggests that younger candidates might be more susceptible to peer pressure and groupthink, potentially leading to less independent and well-considered decisions.
- Informality in Politics: Some students worry about the shift in political culture, stating, “The formal tone of events that goes on will somewhat reduce, and informality and new prospects of things that are unnecessary will come up.” This reflects concerns about the erosion of decorum and the introduction of less serious or focused approaches to governance.
- Challenges from Experienced Politicians: The tough competition with experienced politicians was also highlighted: “Challenge mainly will be the tough fight and malpractices by experienced people in politics for a long time.” This underscores the difficulties younger candidates may face in navigating a field dominated by seasoned politicians who are adept at using their experience to their advantage.
- Perception of Youth: Lastly, there was a concern about how young politicians would be perceived: “They won’t have enough maturity to control a nation,” and “Ignore their opinions saying ‘you’re too young.’” These comments indicate that younger candidates may struggle to be taken seriously by both their peers and the electorate.
The debate over lowering the minimum age for contesting elections from 25 to 21 is complex and multifaceted. While it presents an opportunity to energize Indian politics with fresh perspectives and greater youth involvement, it also raises valid concerns about the readiness and capability of young candidates to take on such significant responsibilities. The voices of the youth, as captured in this survey, reflect both hope and caution, highlighting the need for a careful and considered approach to any potential change in the age requirement for political candidacy. Ultimately, whether or not this proposal becomes a reality, it’s clear that the youth of India are eager to be heard and involved in shaping the future of their country.
