Election Commission Introduces Home Voting for Elderly and Disabled

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced home voting for the first time in a Lok Sabha Election, aiming to facilitate voting for elderly citizens and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Now, voters above 85 years of age and PwDs with a 40% benchmark disability can opt for home voting.

This step signifies a significant advancement in making the electoral process more inclusive and accessible. With over 81 lakh voters aged 85 or above and more than 90 lakh registered PwD voters nationwide, this initiative addresses a substantial portion of the electorate.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Dr Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, announced this initiative, emphasizing the Commission's commitment to caring for elderly and PwD voters. This approach sets a precedent for societal inclusivity.

In the initial phases of polling, eligible voters in this category have already exercised their right to vote from home, supported by a dedicated team of polling staff and security personnel to ensure the secrecy of voting.

How to Avail this Facility?

Eligible voters must complete Form 12D within five days of the election notification and submit it to the returning officer. PwD voters need to include a baseline disability certificate with their applications.

A dedicated team, comprising polling officials and security personnel, visits the voter’s residence to collect their votes, ensuring voters are informed in advance about the visit for a smooth voting experience. The entire process is recorded for transparency.

Source: DD News