What New Measures Will Enhance Voter Experience in Upcoming Elections?

The Election Commission of India has announced new measures to improve voter experience in the upcoming Assembly elections across five states and one Union Territory. Key initiatives include the provision of Assured Minimum Facilities at polling stations, Voter Assistance Booths, and a mobile phone deposit facility. These enhancements aim to ensure a smooth and accessible voting process for all citizens. Read on to learn more about the specific amenities and support that will be available to voters on election day.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 22, 2026, 11:44 IST

Election Commission's Commitment to Voter Facilities

New Delhi: On Sunday, the Election Commission of India (ECI) revealed plans to ensure that all polling stations will offer essential facilities and comprehensive assistance for voters during the upcoming Assembly elections in five states and one Union Territory.

Previously, on March 15, the ECI had announced the schedule for the General Elections for the Legislative Assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, along with bye-elections in six additional states.

In its announcement, the Commission instructed Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) in the relevant states and Union Territories to guarantee that each of the 2,18,807 polling stations is equipped with Assured Minimum Facilities (AMFs) and sufficient voter support on election day.

The AMFs will encompass vital amenities such as drinking water, shaded waiting areas, toilets with water supply, adequate lighting, ramps for individuals with disabilities, standard voting booths, and clear signage to assist voters.

The ECI also mentioned that CEOs are required to provide benches at regular intervals in queues, allowing voters to sit while waiting to cast their votes.

To enhance voter awareness, four standardized Voter Facilitation Posters (VFP) will be prominently displayed at all polling stations. These posters will include details about the polling station, a list of candidates, guidelines for voters, approved identification documents, and the voting process.

Moreover, Voter Assistance Booths (VABs) will be established at each polling location.

These booths will be staffed by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and other officials to assist voters in finding their polling booth number and their position in the electoral roll.

The booths will feature clear signage to ensure they are easily visible to voters approaching the polling area.

In a bid to improve convenience, the ECI has also introduced a mobile phone deposit facility for voters.

According to the Commission, voters will be able to deposit their switched-off mobile phones with a designated volunteer outside the polling station entrance and retrieve them after voting.

Reaffirming its dedication to a smooth electoral process, the Commission stressed the importance of adhering to these guidelines.

The ECI emphasized that the provision of AMFs and related accessibility measures is compulsory and will be closely monitored at all polling stations. All field personnel have been instructed to complete necessary preparations well ahead of the election dates to ensure a seamless and enjoyable voting experience for all voters.