Page 173 - General Election

Recognition from International Standards

Aligned with the philosophy of universal adult suffrage and 'No voter to be left
behind,' ECI understands and emphasizes the importance of ensuring accessibility
for all citizens.

A broader acknowledgment of the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) comes
from international standards such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and
the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

These standards stress respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy, freedom
of choice, and full participation and inclusion in society for persons with disabilities.

Legal Framework

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, defines a "person with disability"

as someone facing long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairment
hindering full and effective participation in society. This underscores the inherent
barriers to the inclusion of PwDs in the electoral process.

Elections empower citizens to make choices and elect representatives based on

adult suffrage. The Election Machinery's responsibility is to ensure eligible citizens
are registered, and voters are empowered to make choices by casting their votes.
PwDs, being a special section, require affirmative action to register as voters and

exercise their franchise with ease.

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