Abstract

The 2024 Indian General Election is pronounced as a set out of the nation’s democratic evolution, underscoring its strengths and vulnerabilities. With over 900 million eligible voters, India’s electoral process and political climate remain a pageant of universal relevance. However, the elections also set alight controversies on fairness, voter participation, and Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) authenticity. While EVMs have streamlined the voting process, concerns regarding their transparency persevere despite introducing Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems. This article critically digs into these concerns, collocating them with India’s historical electoral reforms and the role of the Election Commission in safeguarding democratic integrity. Moreover, the election outcome, characterised by the BJP’s third consecutive victory yet a downturn in its outright majority, highlights shifting political dynamics, voter sentiment, and the influence of caste-based mobilisation. The study further explores allegations and contentions regarding electoral malpractice, media bias, and enforcing the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). As India stands at a crossroads, the demand for electoral reforms, including enhanced transparency, superintendence, and technological evolutions like blockchain-based voting, is of vital importance. By juxtaposing the convergence of law, policy, and democracy, this article offers a broad overview of the future of India’s electoral process.

Keywords