Indian expatriates from all walks of life have welcomed the Government of India’s decision to amend the existing electoral law and allow millions of Non-resident Indians (NRIs) to vote from abroad in elections back home. They opined that the decision will involve NRIs in nation-building activities and expressed hope that now political parties will give serious considerations to the problems faced by NRIs. Bindu Suresh Chettur, eminent advocate, legal consultant and President of the Indian Business and Professional Council, Dubai, welcomed the decision and said that it was a constitutional right of the NRIs.
“It is constitutional right of every citizen of India. One must not be denied this right just because he/she is living outside the country,” she said.
She pointed out that this decision will allow NRIs to elect leaders and support political parties to further strengthen bilateral ties between India and other countries hosting Indians in large numbers.
“The decision has come at the right time, as India is set to become the youngest country by 2020 with 64 per cent of its population in the working age group. Due to globalisation, they will keep moving from one place to another, yet they would be able to exercise their franchise in local and general elections,” said Bindu.
She also suggested that there should be representatives of NRIs in the parliament to raise issues concerning the large number of expatriate Indians.
Full Article: gulftoday.ae | Indian expats hail step on voting rights.