In 1947, our literacy rate was about 14 per cent, only about 8 per cent among women. Some argued that the right to vote should be given only to literate people. Discuss in your group why the Constitution makers may have decided on universal franchise from the time of Independence itself.
The Constitution makers chose universal franchise despite low literacy rates because they believed in the wisdom and judgment of all citizens, regardless of education.
They had 'abundant faith in the common man and the ultimate success of democratic rule.'
Restricting voting to literate people would have excluded the majority of Indians, especially women and marginalised communities, undermining the very principle of democracy.
Universal franchise ensures that all citizens have an equal stake in the nation's future and that elected representatives are accountable to everyone, not just an educated elite.
Explanation
The chapter quotes Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar from November 1949: '[India] adopted the principle of adult franchise with an abundant faith in the common man and the ultimate success of democratic rule…never before in the history of the world has such an experiment been so boldly undertaken.' This shows the Constitution makers' commitment to democratic principles over practical concerns about literacy.
Solution Steps
Constitution makers believed in the wisdom and judgment of all citizens regardless of education
They had abundant faith in the common man and the ultimate success of democratic rule
Restricting voting to literate people would have excluded majority of Indians, especially women and marginalised communities
Universal franchise ensures equal stake in nation's future and accountability of representatives to all citizens