Kokrajhar District Celebrates Centenarian Voter with Home Voting Initiative
Honoring a Century of Voting
Kokrajhar DC & District Election Officer P. Uday Praveen greeting 101-year-old voter Sukali Barman at her home (Photo: AT)
Kokrajhar, April 1: In alignment with the Election Commission’s principle of “No Voter to Be Left Behind,” the Kokrajhar district administration honored a 101-year-old voter as part of its Home Voting initiative.
District Commissioner and Election Officer Dr. P. Uday Praveen visited centenarian Sukali Barman at her home in the 3-Kokrajhar Legislative Assembly Constituency, recognizing her lifelong commitment to voting, which he described as a remarkable example of civic duty.
“Individuals like Sukali Barman represent the essence of democracy and inspire all segments of society,” he remarked, emphasizing her consistent involvement in the electoral process.
Despite her age, Barman remains an active participant in elections, demonstrating that democratic engagement knows no age or physical barriers.
Praveen reiterated the administration’s commitment to inclusive elections, stating that special measures are being implemented to ensure accessibility for elderly and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) voters.
“We are dedicated to supporting elderly and vulnerable voters through initiatives like Home Voting, ensuring that every eligible citizen can exercise their right to vote with dignity and ease,” he added.
The Home Voting option, introduced by the Election Commission of India, enables senior citizens aged 85 and older, along with PwD voters, to cast their votes from home.
Officials noted that this initiative is part of a larger effort to enhance inclusive electoral participation throughout Kokrajhar and the state.
In Assam, the Home Voting initiative has garnered significant interest. According to data from the Election Commission, 19,774 elderly voters have been approved for this facility ahead of the Assembly elections.
Approximately 19.32% of eligible senior citizens in the state have chosen home voting, as stated in an official announcement made on March 30.
Authorities also mentioned that elderly and PwD voters who do not opt for home voting will receive assistance at polling stations, including wheelchairs and volunteer support, to ensure a seamless voting experience.
Data indicates that Assam has 2,482 voters aged 100 and above, consisting of 932 men and 1,550 women, with no representation from the third gender in this age group.