Include nri voting in overseas mobility bill 2025

Recent signers:
Leena Fatima and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Millions of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) have contributed immensely to India's economy and have played a crucial role in enhancing the country's global reputation. Yet, when it comes to national and state elections, a vast number of NRIs are unable to exercise their fundamental right to vote due to logistical challenges. This is a significant issue that needs to be addressed with urgency.

Despite the technological advancements that have made connectivity easier and more feasible, current voting arrangements are not conducive to NRIs living abroad. As a result, many NRIs are disenfranchised, unable to participate in shaping the democratic framework of our nation. It is high time that India acknowledges this challenge and takes active measures to facilitate NRI voting.

We propose the inclusion of a dedicated clause for NRI voting facilitation within the Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2025. One actionable solution is to establish polling booths at Indian Embassies and Consulates across the globe. This would allow NRIs to cast their votes conveniently, ensuring that their voices are heard and rights protected. Another potential measure could involve the provision for electronic and proxy voting systems, which will streamline the process and make it far more accessible.

India prides itself on being the world's largest democracy, and part of this pride should involve making concerted efforts to include all its citizens in the electoral process. By facilitating NRI voting, we uphold the democratic values we cherish and maintain the integrity of our electoral process.

Each NRI deserves to have a say in the governance of the nation, and denying them this basic right only serves to alienate them from their roots. Let us urge policymakers to recognize the importance of this issue and take the necessary steps to amend the bill to include NRI voting facilitation.

Sign this petition to echo the demands of millions of Indians abroad and ensure that our democracy truly represents every Indian voice. Together, we can bring about change and empower our fellow citizens, no matter where they reside. Sign now to support NRI voting rights and help strengthen our democracy.

avatar of the starter
RAVI MAHADEVAPetition Starter

36

Recent signers:
Leena Fatima and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Millions of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) have contributed immensely to India's economy and have played a crucial role in enhancing the country's global reputation. Yet, when it comes to national and state elections, a vast number of NRIs are unable to exercise their fundamental right to vote due to logistical challenges. This is a significant issue that needs to be addressed with urgency.

Despite the technological advancements that have made connectivity easier and more feasible, current voting arrangements are not conducive to NRIs living abroad. As a result, many NRIs are disenfranchised, unable to participate in shaping the democratic framework of our nation. It is high time that India acknowledges this challenge and takes active measures to facilitate NRI voting.

We propose the inclusion of a dedicated clause for NRI voting facilitation within the Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2025. One actionable solution is to establish polling booths at Indian Embassies and Consulates across the globe. This would allow NRIs to cast their votes conveniently, ensuring that their voices are heard and rights protected. Another potential measure could involve the provision for electronic and proxy voting systems, which will streamline the process and make it far more accessible.

India prides itself on being the world's largest democracy, and part of this pride should involve making concerted efforts to include all its citizens in the electoral process. By facilitating NRI voting, we uphold the democratic values we cherish and maintain the integrity of our electoral process.

Each NRI deserves to have a say in the governance of the nation, and denying them this basic right only serves to alienate them from their roots. Let us urge policymakers to recognize the importance of this issue and take the necessary steps to amend the bill to include NRI voting facilitation.

Sign this petition to echo the demands of millions of Indians abroad and ensure that our democracy truly represents every Indian voice. Together, we can bring about change and empower our fellow citizens, no matter where they reside. Sign now to support NRI voting rights and help strengthen our democracy.

avatar of the starter
RAVI MAHADEVAPetition Starter

The Decision Makers

Ministry of External Affair
Ministry of External Affair
us1.epw@mea.gov.in, consultant4.epw@mea.gov.in, so2oia1@mea.gov.in

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