The debate over youth participation in Indian politics could soon gain fresh momentum.
The Telangana government plans to convene a special session of the State Assembly and Legislative Council in the first week of August to pass a resolution urging the Centre to reduce the minimum age for contesting Lok Sabha and Assembly elections from 25 years to 21.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy said the move is aimed at giving younger Indians a greater role in shaping public policy and governance.
At present, Indian citizens can vote at the age of 18, but they must be at least 25 years old to contest elections for the Lok Sabha or a State Legislative Assembly.
The Telangana government argues that lowering the eligibility age would better reflect the aspirations of India’s large youth population and encourage more young leaders to enter electoral politics.
Revanth Reddy said the proposed resolution would be forwarded to the Central government, along with a request for the necessary constitutional and legal amendments.
He also pointed to examples from other countries where younger leaders have been allowed to contest elections and hold public office.
Any change to the minimum age requirement would require Parliament to amend the relevant laws. For now, Telangana’s proposal is expected to add a new dimension to the national discussion on youth representation in politics.
