Shri A.K. Ayyar
Explanation
The debates within the Constituent Assembly of India regarding the adoption of Universal Adult Suffrage. The framers of the Constitution took a bold step by granting voting rights to every adult citizen, regardless of literacy or property, departing from the restricted franchise of the colonial era.
Historical Context and Attribution:
- Shri Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar, a distinguished jurist and member of the Drafting Committee, made this remark during the Constituent Assembly debates.
- While discussing the implications of adopting adult suffrage in a country with high illiteracy and poverty, he defended the decision strongly. He stated that the introduction of democratic government on the basis of adult suffrage would "bring enlightenment and promote the well-being, the standard of life, the comfort, and the decent living of the common man."
- He argued that the democratic process itself would serve as an educational tool for the masses and that the common man had the capacity to understand his interests.
- While Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Jawaharlal Nehru were also staunch supporters of adult franchise, this specific articulation regarding "enlightenment" and "well-being of the common man" is attributed to A.K. Ayyar.
Key Takeaway:
Shri A.K. Ayyar defended the inclusion of Universal Adult Suffrage in the Constitution, asserting that it would lead to the enlightenment and socio-economic upliftment of the common people.