Disenfranchising prisoners desecrates a cherished value in a democracy i.e. 'right to vote', which should be guarded earnestly. Discuss in the light of The Representation of The People Act, 1951.

The Representation of people's act, 1951 provides qualifications, various affects that called 'lead to disqualification of people in voters list'. It gives abstinence to 'universal adult franchise' given in Art-326. Disenfranchisement prisoners — (1) Lack of 'right to vote' - which is central to democracy —> democracy is rule of law by the people. The sovereignty of people is executed by 'the Vote' in elections. —> its loss remove that religion from political system parti—

ation, in turn ignored by the agrarian political government groups & railroads ignored as do not vote where net donalile. RPA, 1951 provides that in case of conviction for serious offence, etc. persons right to vote will be taken. This approach garners to a punishment based approach rather than a rehabilitative approach as highlighted by our Home Minister. Prisoners come back to society (70%), there is need of rehabilitative approach for their overall improvement after proclaimed 'state the sity, not the sinner'. 'Right to vote' to prisoners could fasten the parlour reforms by prescu—

uting passive politicians to head to their demandile too. It is as highlighted no one is a 'upon outboard'. There is need to amend RPA, 1951 to give 'right to vote' to all prisoners — (1) to deepen democracy where 'one vote one person, one value' (2) equality — the essence of democracy shall be restored. (3) Their incorporation in public sphere will add to civic growth as there is sphere of debate & discussion. 'Modernisation of prison scheme and concept of 'Aden jails' Kerala (open jails) are step in right direction. Right to vote too must be extended.