SC says people can't be compelled to vote; rejects PIL

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking penalties against citizens who do not vote in elections.

A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant disposed of the plea filed by Ajay Goel, who had sought consequences for non-voters, including denial of government benefits. The bench expressed reservations about the feasibility and constitutionality of enforcing voting. It underlined the practical difficulties in mandating electoral participation, stating that such a direction would be unrealistic in a country with diverse socio-economic conditions. CJI Kant said, "If we accept this, then my brother Justice Bagchi has to go to West Bengal and vote though it's a working day."

The bench also underscored the economic constraints faced by many citizens. It emphasised that non-participation may stem from compulsion rather than apathy.