The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee attended the 7th National Voters’ Day Celebrations today (January 25, 2017) in New Delhi.

Speaking on the occasion, the President said there has been some talk about simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies in political circles. If initiative is taken by Election Commission and political parties arrive at a consensus, reform is possible. He said such a move can reduce inconvenience in terms of expenditure and management.

Pointing out that in the last General Elections in 2014, over 66% of the total electorate of 834 million voted, the President congratulated the Election Commission on the successful conduct of this huge exercise. He also congratulated Indian voters for exercising their right to vote and showing utmost maturity in doing so.

The President said the Election Commission requires unflinching support as they are trying to motivate young people in excising their most fundamental democratic right of voting. It is essential that the Election Commission should be an independent and competent institution. Over the years, the Election Commission of India has proved to be so and is appreciated all over the world.

The President said he was confident the Election Commission can maintain its existing standards and continues to improvise and evolve. The Election Commission has made a unique contribution to strengthening the bedrock of Indian democracy. We can take legitimate pride in the fact that we are the largest democracy in the world.

The first copy of a coffee table book ‘Unfolding Indian Elections- Journey of the living democracy’ was presented to the President by Dr. Nazim Zaidi, Election Commissioner of India on the occasion. The President also presented Election Photo Identity Cards to select newly registered young voters.

This release issued at 1615 hrs.