NEW DELHI: More than 2.3 lakh elderly and disabled voters across three poll-bound regions are set to benefit from the home voting facility introduced by the Election Commission of India for the 2026 Assembly elections. The poll panel, in a press note on Monday, described the initiative as a significant step toward inclusive electoral participation.
The Commission had announced the schedule for general elections to the legislative assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal on March 15, along with by-elections in six states. Among these, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry will go to the polls on April 9.
Under provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, voters aged above 85 years and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) identified in electoral rolls are eligible to cast their votes from home through postal ballots. Officials said eligible voters were required to submit applications to their respective Returning Officers within five days of the election notification.
“Over 2.37 lakh electors in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry have been approved so far by the Returning Officers for the home voting facility,” the Commission said in its press note.
The home voting process is already underway in various constituencies of the three regions and is scheduled to conclude by April 5. Polling teams are visiting voters’ residences as per pre-informed schedules. “A second visit will be undertaken if the voter is not available during the first visit, ensuring that no eligible elector is left out,” the press note said.
To maintain transparency and integrity, each polling team is accompanied by a videographer and police personnel. “The entire process is being videographed while strictly preserving the secrecy of the vote,” the Commission emphasized.
In a move aimed at ensuring fairness, contesting candidates from recognized political parties have been provided with a list of electors opting for home voting. They are also being informed in advance about the schedule of visits. “Candidates may depute their representatives to accompany polling teams after due intimation to the Returning Officer,” the statement added.
For elderly and PwD voters who have not opted for home voting, authorities have assured comprehensive arrangements at polling stations. These include volunteers, wheelchairs, and other assistance to facilitate a smooth voting experience.
The initiative is part of broader efforts by the Election Commission to enhance accessibility and participation in the democratic process, particularly among vulnerable sections of society.
Agencies