Hyderabad: Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Thursday said that the state government will pass a resolution in the upcoming Legislative Assembly session, urging the Centre to lower the minimum age required to contest in Legislative Assembly elections from the current 25 to 21 years.
Arguing that the current age limit restricted young people’s representation in politics and governance, thereof, he said out that if 18-year-olds could be trusted with the right to vote and 21-year-olds were deemed capable of serving as IAS and IPS officers, they should also be considered eligible to participate directly in the democratic process by contesting in Assembly elections.
Reddy shared this proposal while addressing students during the Children’s Day celebrations at LB Stadium, which coincided with the first anniversary of the Congress government in Telangana.
"Today, 21-year-old IAS and IPS officers are shouldering administrative responsibilities across districts. It is only fair that young people of the same age have the chance to bring their energy and fresh perspectives to our Legislative Assemblies," Reddy stated, stressing his belief that young MLAs could drive change in sectors crucial to youth, such as education, employment and sports.
He called upon Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and Legislative Affairs Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu, seated beside him, to initiate action in this regard and ensure that the resolution is introduced in the Legislative Assembly. His plea to the young gathering to voice their support prompted an overwhelming response and a standing ovation.
"Let’s show our legislative affairs minister the strength of this demand," he encouraged, stressing the significance of young voices in pushing for policy change.
Reddy expressed confidence that a younger generation of leaders if given the opportunity to serve as elected representatives, would “usher in a new chapter in India’s democratic history.”
He envisioned a legislative Assembly where youth could have a more active role in representing the needs and aspirations of their peers.
The Chief Minister’s proposal also paid tribute to former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, who, in 1989, lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 to expand youth participation in democracy.
Reddy further commemorated the legacy of Jawaharlal Nehru, whose birthday is celebrated as Children’s Day, underscoring the ideals of a progressive, youth-driven democracy.
