Assam Assembly Elections: Home Voting Facility for Over 26,000 Electors

Home Voting Initiative for Assam Elections

Guwahati, Mar 30: As the Assam Assembly elections approach on April 9, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has approved home voting for more than 26,000 voters in the state.

This facility, established under Section 60(c) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, allows individuals aged over 85 and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to vote via postal ballots from their homes.

Currently, 19,774 senior citizens and 6,638 PwD voters in Assam have been authorized to utilize this home voting option. Approximately 19.32% of eligible elderly voters have chosen this facility, while the participation rate among PwD voters is 3.23%, according to a statement released by the ECI on Monday.

In total, across Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, over 2.37 lakh voters have been granted access to home voting, indicating an increasing acceptance of this option among at-risk voter demographics. Kerala has the highest number of participants, while Assam shows a steady but moderate engagement.

Election officials have confirmed that the process is already in progress in various constituencies and is expected to conclude by April 5.

Polling teams, along with security personnel and videographers, are visiting the homes of voters to ensure transparency while safeguarding the confidentiality of the ballots.

Voters are notified of the schedule beforehand, and if someone is unavailable during the first visit, a second attempt will be made.

Candidates and recognized political parties have been informed about these visits and can send representatives to observe the proceedings.

For elderly and PwD voters who have not opted for home voting, assistance will be available at polling stations, including wheelchairs and volunteers, to facilitate a smooth voting experience.

This initiative is part of the ECI's broader efforts to improve accessibility and encourage participation in the electoral process, especially among vulnerable groups, as Assam prepares for this significant election.