New Delhi. The Union Territory of Puducherry, located on India’s southeast coast, is known for its serene French-style buildings and cultural diversity. But this coastal city also boasts a democratic system that is quite unique globally. Many residents, while living on Indian soil, cast their votes for the French President, Parliament, and European Parliament.
This unique right stems from historical treaties, diplomatic agreements, and citizenship rules between the two countries. Rooted in history.
Puducherry was under French rule until 1954. A formal treaty between the two countries was concluded in 1962, when control was transferred to the Indian government. During this historic transition, local residents were given the option of accepting Indian citizenship or retaining their French citizenship. Those who chose to retain their former citizenship were locally known as “Renonçants.” Under this legal provision, those citizens and their descendants retain valid French citizenship and all political rights to this day.
French polling booth in India
Whenever French presidential or parliamentary elections are held, Puducherry witnesses a heightened electoral activity. Official polling booths are set up at historic institutions such as the French Consulate General and the Lycée Français in Puducherry.
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According to the report, over 5,000 registered French voters live in India, including Puducherry, Karaikal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. A large number of these live in Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam in Puducherry. Registered citizens, from the elderly to the young, actively participate in these foreign elections by enrolling their names in the voter list.
A democratic bridge connecting two countries
This entire system is not merely an electoral formality. Every vote cast from India directly influences the outcome of elections at the Élysée Palace in Paris and the French Parliament. This cultural and political connection between India and France continues to shape the history of Puducherry as a living and unique story.