PRENEETA SHARMA
Hikkim, which is tucked away in the isolated Spiti valleys of Himachal Pradesh, has the distinction of being the location of the highest polling station in the world. With its remarkable elevation of 4,400 meters (14,400 feet) above sea level, Hikkim has left its mark on both Indian and global electoral history. This essay explores the amazing history of this high-altitude polling station, the logistical difficulties it poses, and the significance of Hikkim.
The Intriguing Tale of the Polling Station in Hikkim
A few hundred people live in the little settlement of Hikkim, which is situated in the icy Spiti desert. The village attracted international notice when it was named the highest polling station in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, despite the area’s reputation for isolation and untamed beauty.
A few hundred people live in the little settlement of Hikkim, which is situated in the icy Spiti desert. The village attracted international notice when it was named the highest polling station in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, despite the area’s reputation for isolation and untamed beauty.
Despite the harsh climate and remote location, Hikkim’s citizens have consistently shown a strong dedication to democracy. To guarantee that even the nation’s most remote residents could exercise their right to vote, the polling station was built. The village’s access is frequently limited during the severe winter months when the roads become inaccessible owing to snow, and Kaza, the closest administrative town, is around 15 kilometers distant.
The people of Hikkim do their best to engage in the democratic process in spite of these obstacles. Even the most distant voices are heard thanks to the polling booth, which has been a symbol of India’s inclusive democracy despite the country’s harsh winters, dangerous terrain, and thin air at high elevations.
The chilly desert region of the Spiti Valley, where Hikkim is situated, is akin to Tibet both geographically and culturally. The settlement is one of the highest inhabited locations in India, standing at 4,400 meters above sea level. Hikkim is a location of dual significance for both electoral and communication infrastructure, as the settlement is also home to the world’s highest post office.
The Spiti Valley itself is renowned for its distinctive beauty, historic monasteries, and rich cultural legacy. Heavy snowfall keeps the valley isolated from the outside world for the majority of the year, which makes Hikkim’s polling station even more important. Hikkim is a shining example of the Indian political system in this bleak yet alluring setting.
In Hikkim, voting is not for those who are faint in heart. The inhabitants frequently deal with harsh weather, high altitude illness, and challenging terrain. In order to set up the voting site, the polling officers must likewise endure similar conditions by coming days in advance. Election planning in this village is logistically challenging due to its distant location and erratic weather. Physical activity, like walking to the polling place, is far more taxing on the body at high altitudes due to the thin air. It takes a remarkable amount of work for many of the older peasants to vote. Voter participation in Hikkim has historically been remarkable, demonstrating the village’s dedication to taking part in the political process, despite the difficulties.
More than fifty people were registered to vote in Hikkim in the 2019 elections, and the village witnessed a remarkable turnout. The villagers’ and the election officers’ unwavering commitment to making sure the polling station runs well is evidence of how strong Indian democracy is.
A Sign of Inclusive Democracy: Hikkim
Hikkim Polling Booth is a prime illustration of how India, the biggest democracy in the world, does everything in its power to guarantee that every eligible person, regardless of how far away they live, can vote. In addition to being a geographical achievement, Hikkim’s unique status as the highest polling station serves as a testament to the extent the Indian electoral system will go to in order to guarantee equality.
Even in the most remote areas of the nation, elections in places like Spiti serve as a reminder of the close ties that exist between democracy and the people. Despite the difficulties presented by geography or environment, Hikkim serves as a beacon, highlighting the value of involvement in governance.
The Polling Station’s Future in Hikkim
As the world’s highest polling station, Hikkim continues to draw interest from all around the world with every election. Election-related difficulties still exist in this high-altitude, underdeveloped area, nevertheless. Despite constant efforts to enhance connectivity and guarantee the seamless conduct of elections, obstacles will always arise due to weather and topography. Hikkim will continue to be a singular representation of democratic inclusion as India develops, demonstrating the tenacity of the electorate and the electoral personnel who enable elections in the world’s highest hamlet.
