Question

Why is the minimum educational qualification rejected as a criterion while granting Universal Adult Franchise.

Answer 1

The minimum educational qualification is rejected as a criterion for granting Universal Adult Franchise because it would lead to discrimination and violate the principle of equality. Universal Adult Franchise, by definition, grants the right to vote to all adult citizens without discrimination on the basis of caste, colour, creed, sex, place of birth, property, and even education.

The core idea is that democracy requires the participation of all people, and imposing an educational qualification would unjustly exclude large segments of the population, particularly the poor and underprivileged who may not have had access to formal education. Thus, Universal Adult Franchise stands as a symbol of political equality and inclusive democracy.