disenfranchisement
/ˌdɪsɪnˈfræntʃɪzmənt/
Definition
The act of depriving individuals or groups of their legal right to vote, effectively excluding them from participation in the democratic process.
Etymology
The word is derived from the prefix 'dis-' (meaning 'do the opposite of') combined with 'enfranchise,' which comes from the Old French 'enfranchir' ('to set free'). It historically refers to being removed from the 'franchise,' or the state of being granted a right or privilege, especially the right to vote.
In the news
In this article, Justice Lokur uses the term to describe how administrative obstacles and the shifting burden of proof have caused millions of Indians to be removed from electoral rolls, preventing them from voting.
‘Indian Passport Reduced to a Bus Ticket’: Justice Lokur Warns of ‘Serious Consequences’ on Fundamental Rights
Read the full article ↗IndiaTomorrow