Introduction

The Election Commission plays a critical role in ensuring the fairness and integrity of electoral processes. However, it faces numerous challenges, the most prominent of which is Cash for Votes. This malpractice not only undermines the democratic process but also distorts the will of the people. Additionally, the Electoral College system in the United States adds another layer of complexity to election proceedings. This article will explore these challenges in detail, highlighting the impact and potential solutions.

Challenges in India: Cash for Votes

In India, the practice of Cash for Votes remains rampant, pervading every level of society. Voters are often offered bribes in cash, liquor, gifts like sarees, and even delicious meals such as biryani. This practice is not only illegal but also violates the principles of democracy. Despite these violations, a significant portion of the electorate sees nothing wrong with accepting such incentives from candidates and their parties.

The Election Commission, responsible for monitoring and ensuring fair elections, faces several constraints. Firstly, it lacks the necessary manpower to combat this issue effectively. Secondly, the commission relies on local officials to conduct elections, which often leads to a conflict of interest. Consequently, local officials may resort to unethical practices to secure votes, making it exceedingly difficult to combat Cash for Votes without substantial systemic reforms.

Challenges of the Electoral College: United States Perspective

When discussing challenges faced by election commissions, it is important to acknowledge the unique challenges posed by the Electoral College system in the United States. The Electoral College allows states to have more representation in the presidential election process than their population would imply, leading to candidates winning the presidency even if they lose the popular vote.

This system has its pros and cons. Proponents argue that it affords greater representation to smaller states, ensuring that their voices are heard in the political process. However, opponents argue that the system can lead to a scenario where a candidate who loses the popular vote can still win the presidency, as was the case with Donald Trump in 2016. This has raised questions about the fairness and legitimacy of the electoral process.

From a personal standpoint, my opinion is that the Electoral College approach has contributed to the election of Trump in 2016. However, it is important to recognize that the system is entrenched in law, and any argument based on a “stolen election” or other falsehoods is unfounded. The states' influence on the Electoral College is more pronounced in the early years of the United States, but I do not believe it serves the country well in modern times.

Additional Considerations in India

In addition to Cash for Votes, the Election Commission in India faces other challenges, including ensuring the safety of people during the election process. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Commission has had to ban physical election rallies, a decision that is crucial for public health. It is essential that the Commission remains impartial and stands firm against political pressure to continue this ban for at least the next ten days, as the pandemic is not yet over.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges faced by election commissions, there are potential solutions. For instance, in India, reforming the Electoral Commission's powers and increasing its manpower could help combat Cash for Votes. In the United States, rethinking the role and influence of the Electoral College could address the issue of candidates winning while losing the popular vote.

Ultimately, the goal should be to ensure that elections are free, fair, and reflect the true will of the people. Both in India and the United States, continuous efforts are needed to strengthen election administration and uphold democratic principles.