ECI allows postal ballot voting for elderly, PwDs and service voters

The Election Commission of India announced new measures to expand postal ballot voting for the upcoming Assembly elections.

The initiative aims to facilitate voting for senior citizens (85+), Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), service voters, and those on election duty.

Under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, voters aged 85 years and above and identified PwDs can opt for postal ballots.

Application Process: Eligible voters must submit Form 12D to the Returning Officer via the Booth Level Officer (BLO) within 5 days of election notification.

Home Voting: Polling teams will visit voters’ residences to collect ballots as per a pre-announced schedule shared with candidates.

Expanded Coverage: Postal ballot facility extended to essential service personnel, including:

• Fire services
• Healthcare workers
• Electricity staff
• Traffic & transport personnel
• Aviation and ambulance services

• Authorized media personnel covering elections also included as absentee voters.

Election Duty Voters: Can vote at designated facilitation centres with ensured secrecy of voting.

Service Voters (Armed Forces, etc.): Will receive ballots electronically via the Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS). No postal charges will be applicable.

The move is aimed at ensuring inclusive and accessible electoral participation.