Why People Are Hesitant to Adopt an Online Voting System?
Reasons for Hesitancy to adopt Online Voting/ eVoting
India is a democratic country. Every five years, the government is elected where the citizens of the country vote for an individual who they think could run the country better. So it’s needless to say how important elections are for the country. Even in private sectors, social clubs, and NGOs, elections take a major part. India has been using paper ballots and electronic voting machines(EVMs) for its elections for the last couple of decades. But now as the world around us is changing, India is also looking for an alternative. Here comes the idea of Online Voting or eVoting.
eVoting in Indian Politics:
The implementation of Online Voting or eVoting in India has been a topic of discussion for the last few years. But there are many small or big problems India needs to resolve before the implementation. The COVID-19 pandemic made people realize the urgency of an election alternative in general elections. As social distancing has become a part of our daily lives, it’s essential to look for an alternative where we can cast our votes from the comfort of our own houses. The government has been working towards fully digitalized elections and it can be expected that within a few years, this dream will become a reality.
The problems rising among people while adopting an Online Election System:
The Ignorance of Older Generations:
A certain percentage of senior citizens are still not accustomed to the way the internet works. It will be a matter of concern to make them understand why taking things online going to help them store their data. As they are clueless about digitalization, they will also not accept online voting directly.
Internet Connection in Rural Areas:
India is stepping towards digitalization, but there are many rural areas across the country that still don’t have internet connections. The first step towards adopting online elections has to get fully digitalized and make more people aware of the system and how it works. As people are unaware of this idea, they are hesitant about adopting the procedures.
Cost of the Internet:
Internet is not free in India. Many broadband companies and mobile companies have various packages that you can purchase to use the internet. But for the daily earners, it will not be possible to spend money on this luxury. The government needs to think of an alternative for them to cast their respective votes in the elections if everything goes online.
Though there are a few limitations, if the Indian government really works towards solving these minor issues, India can definitely adopt online voting technology within a few years.
