NEW DELHI — Chief Election Commissioner of
India (CEC) Rajiv Kumar announced on Tuesday that India is poised to become a
nation with one billion registered voters, the largest voter base in the
world.
Speaking at an Election Commission of India (ECI) press
conference held at the Plenary Hall of Vigyan Bhawan in the national capital,
CEC Rajiv Kumar stated, "2024 has been a significant year globally, with
nearly two-thirds of the democratic world going to polls."
He highlighted India's electoral milestones in 2024, saying,
"We conducted elections in eight states and Union Territories, as well as
the general elections, setting multiple records. These include maximum voter
turnout, violence-free elections, record seizures, and enhanced participation
by the public, especially women."
Expressing optimism about the future of democracy, Kumar
added, "I hope democracy continues to strengthen in this manner."
The CEC revealed that India is nearing a historic milestone,
stating, "Our electoral rolls released yesterday, and in four more states
today, show that we are crossing 99 crore registered voters. Soon, we will be a
nation of one billion voters, the maximum in the world."
Highlighting the increasing participation of women, CEC
Kumar noted, "The number of women registered as voters will also surpass
48 crore in this SSR (Special Summary Revision). This is a very strong
indicator of women's empowerment."
Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and
Dr Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, also announced the dates for the Delhi Legislative
Assembly elections.
Delhi will go to polls on February 5, with the results to be
declared on February 8.
The date of the Issue of the Gazette Notification is January
10, the last date for making nominations is January 17, the date for scrutiny
of nominations is January 18, and the last date for withdrawal of candidatures
is January 20.
Speaking about Delhi's significance, the CEC said,
"Delhi symbolises diversity, with people from various states and cultures
residing here. This diversity increases the responsibility of Delhiites. I hope
'Dilli Dil Se Vote Karegi (Delhi will vote from the heart')."
