Question

What is single transferable vote system?

Hint:

The core idea of STV is 'preference' and 'transfer'. Voters express their preferences, and votes are transferred to ensure they are not wasted, leading to a proportional outcome.

Answer 1

Step 1: Key Concept:
The Single Transferable Vote (STV) system is a type of voting system used for electing multiple candidates in a constituency. It is a form of proportional representation, designed to ensure that the number of seats won by a party or group of candidates is proportionate to the number of votes they receive.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The key characteristics of the STV system are:
1. Voters Rank Candidates: Instead of voting for a single candidate, the voter ranks the candidates in order of preference (1 for their most preferred, 2 for their second most preferred, and so on).
2. Winning Quota: A candidate needs a minimum number of votes, known as a 'quota', to get elected. The most common formula for this is the Droop quota: \((\frac{\text{Total Valid Votes}}{\text{Number of Seats} + 1}) + 1\).
3. Vote Transfer: After the first preferences are counted, if a candidate reaches the quota, their surplus votes (votes received above the quota) are transferred to the other candidates based on the second preferences marked on those ballot papers. If no candidate reaches the quota, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their votes are transferred to the other candidates based on the next preference.
4. Proportional Result: This process of vote transfer continues until the required number of candidates have reached the quota and are elected. This ensures minimal wastage of votes and a more proportional result.
In India, this system is used for elections to the Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Councils, and for the offices of the President and Vice-President.