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| Empowering Every Voter: ECI's Accessibility Initiatives |
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is dedicated to ensuring that every citizen can participate in the electoral process, embodying the motto "no voter is left behind." To achieve this, the ECI has implemented various initiatives aimed at making voting accessible to all, with a particular emphasis on elderly individuals and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs).Voting from Home for Elderly and PwDs:
The ECI has introduced a provision allowing voters aged 85 and above, as well as PwDs with a disability benchmark of 40 percent, to cast their votes from the comfort of their homes. This initiative seeks to eliminate barriers to voting faced by these groups.
Volunteers and Wheelchairs at Polling Stations:
Recognizing the importance of assistance for elderly and PwD voters, the ECI mandates the presence of volunteers and wheelchairs at all polling stations. This ensures that every voter receives the necessary support to exercise their voting rights.
Transport Facilities for PwDs and Elderly:
The ECI facilitates transport for PwDs and elderly voters to enable them to reach polling stations without difficulty, addressing transportation and mobility challenges that could hinder their participation.
Saksham App for PwDs:
The Saksham App, developed in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, assists PwDs by providing information on accessible polling stations and available facilities.
Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) in Schools:
As part of its commitment to inclusivity, the ECI advocates for permanent Assured Minimum Facilities (AMF) in schools, which include various amenities to ensure accessibility during elections.
Polling Stations Managed by PwDs and Women:
The introduction of polling stations managed exclusively by PwDs and women serves as a model for inclusive voting, promoting the participation of marginalized groups in the electoral process.
Model Polling Stations:
Model Polling Stations, established by the ECI, showcase best practices in accessibility and inclusivity, offering state-of-the-art facilities to ensure a seamless voting experience for all citizens.
Know Your Candidate (KYC) App:
The KYC app, launched by the ECI, empowers voters by providing information about candidates' criminal records, assets, and liabilities, promoting transparency and informed decision-making.
Additional Facts:
Braille ballot papers and voter identity cards have been introduced by the ECI to assist visually impaired voters.
In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, over 7,000 model polling stations were set up across the country, demonstrating the ECI's commitment to accessible and inclusive voting practices.