NE POLITICAL BUREAU
NEW DELHI, MAR 22
In a major push to make voting more inclusive, accessible and voter-friendly, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed that all polling stations across the country be equipped with Assured Minimum Facilities (AMFs) and robust voter assistance mechanisms for the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections and bye-elections.
General Elections and bye-elections 2026: Assured Minimum Facilities ✅
Voter Assistance to be provided at All Polling Stations ✅
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— Election Commission of India (@ECISVEEP) March 22, 2026
The move follows the announcement of election schedules for key states including Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, along with bye-polls in six states.
- 2.18 lakh polling stations to be equipped for comfort, accessibility and transparency
- Drinking water, toilets, ramps, seating & signage made mandatory nationwide
- Voter Assistance Booths and facilitation posters to simplify polling experience
- Mobile deposit system introduced to ensure smooth, distraction-free voting
Under the directive, over 2.18 lakh polling stations will be equipped with essential amenities such as drinking water, shaded waiting areas, toilets with water, proper lighting, ramps for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), standard voting compartments and clear signage.
“The Commission is committed to ensuring that every voter experiences a seamless, dignified and accessible voting process,” an ECI official stated.
To further ease voter participation, benches will be placed at regular intervals in queues, allowing elderly and physically challenged voters to sit while waiting.
In a significant awareness initiative, four standardised Voter Facilitation Posters will be prominently displayed at every polling station, providing key information such as polling details, candidate lists, voting procedures, required identification documents, and essential do’s and don’ts.
“Empowering voters with clear information is as critical as providing physical infrastructure,” the official added.
Additionally, Voter Assistance Booths (VABs) staffed by Booth Level Officers will be set up at every polling location to help voters identify their booth numbers and electoral roll details with ease.
Breaking new ground, the Commission has also introduced a mobile phone deposit facility outside polling stations. Voters will be able to safely deposit switched-off phones with designated volunteers before entering, ensuring a distraction-free and orderly voting environment.
“These measures are aimed at enhancing both convenience and the sanctity of the voting process,” the Commission emphasised.
The ECI has made it clear that compliance with these provisions is mandatory and will be strictly monitored, with all field officials instructed to complete arrangements well in advance of polling dates.
