The recent announcement by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to introduce home voting facilities for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and senior citizens above 85 years of age is a significant stride towards fostering accessibility and participation in the electoral process. With over 1.50 lakh individuals falling under these categories in the UT of J&K, the provision of home voting eliminates the barriers that often deter their participation. With victory margins often hovering around mere hundreds of votes, these over 1.5 lakh votes hold immense significance in today’s political landscape. The ECI’s initiatives to streamline voting for these individuals are a crucial step that could potentially determine outcomes in specific constituencies. It represents a departure from traditional methods, embracing a more inclusive approach that acknowledges the diverse needs of citizens.
Under this arrangement, Booth Level Officers will coordinate with eligible voters, ensuring their consent and scheduling visits for postal ballot voting. The process, accompanied by polling officials, videographers, and security personnel, ensures the integrity and confidentiality of the ballot. Importantly, the initiative is underpinned by the principle of informed choice, with voters receiving advance notifications about the visitation schedule via SMS. Moreover, the eligibility criteria for postal ballot voting have been meticulously defined, prioritizing individuals with benchmark disability certificates and simplifying the application process for elderly citizens above 85 years of age. While the introduction of home voting represents a pivotal step, it is complemented by broader measures aimed at enhancing accessibility at polling stations. Facilities such as ramps, waiting areas, wheelchairs, and toilets are being instituted to ensure a comfortable voting experience. The deployment of disability-specific poll volunteers underscores a commitment to cater to the unique requirements of diverse voters. Additionally, provisions such as signage, Braille information slips, dummy ballot sheets, and magnifying glasses uphold the principles of inclusivity and accessibility mandated by the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Every vote holds undeniable significance. The concerted efforts by the ECI to facilitate home voting for PwDs and senior citizens deserve commendation.
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