President Trump’s executive order aims to reform U.S. elections by emphasizing biometric voter identification, referencing systems in India and Brazil. It calls for state and federal cooperation to enhance election integrity and threatens funding cuts for non-compliant states. The order has reignited discussions on the Aadhaar card introduced by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
On Tuesday, United States President Donald Trump issued an executive order focusing on election reforms by emphasizing the importance of voter identification linked to biometric databases, as exemplified by India and Brazil. He stated, “Free, fair, and honest elections unmarred by fraud, errors, or suspicion are fundamental to maintaining our constitutional Republic.” The order called for states to collaborate with federal entities to ensure the integrity of elections.
In the executive order, Trump pointed out that the United States primarily relies on self-attestation for citizenship, contrasting it with countries like India that use biometric systems. Following this mention, Indian Congress members expressed gratitude toward former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for implementing the Aadhaar card system in India. Congress MP Manickam Tagore remarked on the irony of current Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticizing the Aadhaar initiative initially, saying, “US President Donald Trump’s praise for Aadhaar is the praise for the visionary leadership of Dr. Manmohan Singh.”
Trump’s directive expresses concern that the U.S. has not adequately enforced essential election protections and mandates that states prosecute election crimes. Should states fail to comply, the order warns of potential federal funding reductions. Additionally, it directs agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security to assist election officials in identifying non-citizen voters.
The executive order follows Trump’s persistent allegations of electoral fraud and rigging, with specific criticisms directed at mail voting practices, which he argues compromise election security without presenting any evidence to support these claims.
In summary, President Trump’s executive order aims to enhance election security in the U.S. by promoting voter identification systems similar to those in India and Brazil. The recognition of India’s biometric Aadhaar system has prompted reflections on its inception under Manmohan Singh’s leadership. The order also underscores efforts to ensure compliance among states, while continuing Trump’s narrative regarding election integrity and fraud concerns.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
