Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday commended the Election Commission of India (ECI) for leveraging technology to enhance the power of the people and ensure a fair electoral process. His remarks, made during his monthly “Mann ki Baat” radio address, came ahead of the EC’s foundation day on January 25, which is observed as National Voters’ Day.
Modi acknowledged the EC’s efforts in modernising and strengthening the election process over time. “It has used the power of technology to strengthen people’s power,” he said, encouraging citizens to actively participate in elections to contribute to the democratic process.
The prime minister’s comments come amid ongoing criticism from opposition parties, which have raised concerns about the integrity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Modi’s endorsement of the EC could be viewed as a defense of the EVM system.
Reflecting on India’s democratic journey, Modi recalled how, after independence, there were doubts about the country’s ability to sustain democracy. However, he said, India proved those doubts wrong, asserting that India is the “mother of democracy.”
In his broadcast, which took place on the third Sunday of January instead of the usual last Sunday due to Republic Day next week, Modi played audio clips of prominent members of India’s constituent assembly, including its chairman Rajendra Prasad, Bhim Rao Ambedkar, and Syama Prasad Mookerjee. He highlighted the values they championed, such as Ambedkar’s call for collective effort and Prasad’s emphasis on humanistic values.
“We should take inspiration from them to build an India of which our Constitution makers would have been proud,” Modi said.
Modi also mentioned that Republic Day will mark the 75th anniversary of India’s Constitution.
Speaking about the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Modi noted the unity among people of various castes and regions, emphasizing that there is no discrimination. He also praised the significant participation of the youth, calling it a sign of strengthening the country’s civilizational roots and ensuring a bright future.
The prime minister expressed pride in the global popularity of the event, which he said is a matter of pride for every Indian.