Simultaneous elections to LS, state assemblies can reduce inconvenience: Prez

President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday said simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies can reduce inconvenience in terms of expenditure and management.

President Mukherjee, who attended the seventh National Voters' Day Celebrations here, speaking on the occasion said there has been some talk about simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies in political circles.

"If initiative is taken by Election Commission and political parties arrive at a consensus, reform is possible," he added while stating that such a move can reduce inconvenience in terms of expenditure and management.

Pointing out that over 66 percent of the total electorate of 834 million voted in the 2014 general elections, the President congratulated the Election Commission on the successful conduct of this huge exercise. He also congratulated the Indian voters for exercising their right to vote and showing utmost maturity in doing so.

The President said the Election Commission requires unflinching support as they are trying to motivate young people in excising their most fundamental democratic right of voting.

"It is essential that the Election Commission should be an independent and competent institution. Over the years, the Election Commission of India has proved to be so and is appreciated all over the world," he added.

President Mukherjee said he was confident the Election Commission can maintain its existing standards and continues to improvise and evolve.

"The Election Commission has made a unique contribution to strengthening the bedrock of Indian democracy. We can take legitimate pride in the fact that we are the largest democracy in the world," he added.

The first copy of a coffee table book 'Unfolding Indian Elections- Journey of the living democracy' was presented to the President by Election Commissioner of India Dr. Nazim Zaidi on the occasion. The President also presented Election Photo Identity Cards to select newly registered young voters.