Election Laws and Electoral Reforms in India and U.K.

Abstract

This paper examines the election laws and electoral reforms in India and the United Kingdom, highlighting their evolution, current frameworks, and ongoing challenges. India, the world's largest democracy, operates under a legal structure largely defined by the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and is overseen by the Election Commission of India. The Indian electoral system, based on the First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) model, has undergone significant reforms to address issues of transparency, voter fraud, and campaign finance, including the introduction of electronic voting machines (EVMs) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs). In contrast, the United Kingdom's electoral system, rooted in centuries-old traditions, is regulated by laws such as the Representation of the People Acts and the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act, 2000. While the UK also employs the FPTP system, it faces criticism for not reflecting the proportionality of votes. Recent reforms in the UK have focused on improving voter registration, addressing electoral fraud, and debating alternative voting methods like the Single Transferable Vote (STV) to enhance democratic representation. The study identifies both similarities and divergences in the electoral processes of these two democracies, emphasizing the impact of their respective legal frameworks on electoral integrity and democratic participation. It also explores ongoing debates and proposed reforms aimed at enhancing the inclusiveness, fairness, and transparency of elections in both nations.