ECI used power of technology to strengthen people's power: PM Modi

118th Mann ki Baat on January 19, 2025: PM Modi praises ECI for using technology to strengthen democracy, ahead of National Voters' Day, amid opposition criticism.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Sunday (January 19, 2025), saying it has used the power of technology to strengthen people's power and also shown commitment to a fair polling process.

Mr. Modi's praise for the poll body in his monthly Mann ki Baat broadcast came ahead of its foundation day on January 25, observed as the National Voters' Day, and amid frequent criticism from the opposition for its alleged pro-BJP bias.

The EC has modernised and strengthened the election process from time to time, Modi asserted.

"It has used power of technology to strengthen people's power," he said, asking people to participate in the polling process in large numbers to be part of democratic process and empowering it.

Opposition parties have increasingly raised questions on the integrity of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and Mr. Modi's remarks can be seen as an endorsement of the EVMs.

The Prime Minister said doubts were cast on India's viability as a democracy after it became independent, but the country proved them wrong. After all, India is mother of democracy, he said.

The programme was held on the third Sunday this month as against the last, which is usually the case, as next Sunday is Republic Day, Mr. Modi noted.