EC ropes in colleges to register students during admissions

To overcome the apathy among youngsters about the electoral process and increase the number of first-time voters, the Election Commission has roped in colleges to register youth as electors during the college admission process.

"While the expected number of first-time voters — those in the 18-21 age group — should be 36 lakh According to Census figures, it is around 12 lakh," said Shirish Mohod, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer (CEO).

Mohod said they had roped in colleges to ensure that in July, when college admissions would begin, they would seek details from students above the age of 18 years to check if they have registered as voters, and if not, would appeal to them to do so. The authorities will also facilitate this registration by giving them the necessary forms to be filled up with the responsibility being given to the principal of colleges or senior staff.

"Though voter registration is voluntary, we are trying to give it a push so that more youngsters enroll. Many are unable to register as they do not know the process. This exercise will facilitate it and ensure a good response," noted Mohod.

The University of Mumbai's Department of Students Welfare in a circular dated March 9, 2017 had asked all its 800-plus affiliated colleges to include a question on whether or not the student has enrolled in the voters list at the time of admission.

The department has sought suggestions from colleges for making voter registration for students above 18 mandatory by colleges. "As per the government regulation, dated February 8 and 9, we have asked all the departments and affiliated colleges to add a question on voter registration in their admission forms. We have now invited suggestions to see if voter registration can be made compulsory for all college students," said a university official.

...& ANALYSIS

• Maharashtra has a total of 8.35 crore voters.
   
• The initiative will increase participation of youngsters in the political process by enrolling them as voters.
   
• The expected number of first-time voters should be 36 lakh,
   
• However, Census figures cite only 12 lakh first-time voters