People who don't vote will be fined HK$12 under plans to make polls compulsory for first time in India

Authorities in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state announced plans to fine people who fail to vote in upcoming elections, the first time voting has been compulsory in the world’s largest democracy.

Anyone who fails to cast their ballot in elections to local civic bodies in Gujarat without providing a legitimate excuse will have to pay a 100 rupee fine (around HK$12), according to the state government.

“As per the rules notified under Gujarat Local Authorities Laws (Amendment) Act, a fine of 100 rupees will be imposed on the registered voter if he or she fails to cast a vote without a valid reason,” M V Joshi, secretary of the Gujarat State Election Commission, said.

The proposal to make voting compulsory in local elections was drawn up when Bharatiya Janata Party leader Modi was Gujarat’s chief minister.

Although he stepped down from the post in May last year after his triumph in India’s general election, the legislation continued to be steered through the state legislature and was finally approved last month.

Modi’s support for the measure has led to expectations that he may try to make voting compulsory in other polls.