Page 19 - General Election

These initiatives collectively aim to create a more inclusive and accommodating electoral
environment, ensuring that every eligible voter, including those with disabilities, can exercise

their right to vote with ease and confidence.

Special Initiatives for Rightful Inclusion of Senior Citizens

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is taking significant steps to ensure the accessibility of
the voting process for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. The ECI provides a home

voting facility, also known as the postal ballot facility, for two specific groups: senior citizens aged
80 and above, and individuals with disabilities of 40 percent or more.

This initiative is part of the optional postal ballot facility offered to Absentee Voters, which

includes those employed in essential services, senior citizens, and Persons with Disabilities
(PwD) with a benchmark disability or higher.

To avail of the postal ballot facility, an Absentee Voter needs to submit an application using
Form-12D to the Returning Officer (RO) of the respective constituency. The application period

extends from the announcement of the election to five days following the notification of the
specific election. A polling team, consisting of two polling officials along with a videographer and
a security personnel, visits the homes of eligible voters. This team facilitates the voting process

on the Postal Ballot while maintaining the complete secrecy of the vote.

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