Shyam Saran Negi, who voted for the first time in independent India, died at the age of 106.

On November 2, Negi voted through the mail in the Himachal Pradesh assembly elections. This was his 34th time using his franchise.

India's oldest voter, Shyam Saran Negi, passed away on November 5, 2022, at his residence in Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh, three days after casting his ballot for the 34th time. He was 106.

Mr Negi, who served as the brand ambassador for the Election Commission, cast his ballot via mail in the November election for the Himachal Pradesh Assembly.

Mr Negi was referred to be "Himachal's pride" by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar when he visited his home. The "indomitable spirit and faith in democracy" of Mr Negi were praised by him.

"Mr Negi has always exercised his right to vote for more than 70 years, even performing his civic duty on November 2 by casting a postal ballot while leaving us," Mr Kumar said.

"His dedication to performing his duties in this matter should serve as an example for young people." He continued, "A suitable memorial to him would be for the country to fully utilise its right to vote and reinforce the basis of the country's democracy.

In honour of Mr Negi, Mr Kumar urged Himachal Pradesh citizens to participate in the next election on November 12.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge were among those who paid respect to Mr Negi.

Speaking at a rally in the Mandi area, Mr Modi asserted that the youth will be inspired by Mr Negi's perspective on democracy. "Negi had voted in the Himachal Pradesh election just a few days prior using a postal ballot. He carried out his duties even before his death."

Mr Kharge claimed that learning the news had hurt him. " The fact that he voted on November 2 for the 34th time is the finest illustration of his unwavering commitment to democracy", Mr Kharge expressed his sympathy to the soul of the departed.

"I am pained to learn of the passing of Shyam Saran Negi," Mr Thakur wrote on Twitter in his condolences.

The CEC sent a letter of appreciation to all 100-year-old voters across the nation on October 1 in honour of International Day of Older Persons. The Election Commission of India (ECI) issued a statement expressing its condolences and appreciation for Mr Negi's contribution to the nation.