NE POLITICAL BUREAU
NEW DELHI, MAR 30
In a major step towards inclusive and accessible elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has enabled over 2.37 lakh electors—including senior citizens above 85 years and Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)—to cast their votes from home in the ongoing Assembly elections, with Puducherry (Puduvai) emerging as a key participant in the initiative.
- ECI rolls out large-scale doorstep voting for elderly and persons with disabilities
- Puducherry records strong participation alongside Kerala and Assam
- Postal ballot system ensures dignity, accessibility, and transparency in voting
- Polling teams, videography, and security cover to safeguard process integrity
- Second visits planned; special facilities assured for those voting at booths
The elections to the Legislative Assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, along with bye-elections in six states, were announced on March 15, with Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry going to polls on April 9, 2026.
Doorstep Democracy in Action
Under Section 60(c) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, eligible voters can opt for home voting via postal ballot, ensuring that no citizen is left behind due to age or disability.
“The initiative reflects our commitment to making elections truly inclusive, accessible, and voter-friendly,” the Commission stated.
Electors opting for this facility are required to apply within five days of the notification to their respective Returning Officers.
Puduvai Shows Strong Participation
As per data released on March 30, Puducherry has recorded encouraging participation:
- 2,066 elderly (85+) voters approved for home voting (34.31%)
- 1,621 PwD voters approved (11.6%)
Kerala leads in overall numbers, followed by Assam, taking the combined total to over 2.37 lakh electors across the three regions.
Transparent, Secure, and Monitored Process
Polling teams are visiting voters’ residences as per pre-informed schedules.
“A videographer accompanies polling officials, along with police security, ensuring transparency while maintaining the secrecy of the vote,” the ECI emphasised.
If a voter is unavailable during the first visit, a second visit is guaranteed, ensuring no eligible voter misses the opportunity.
Candidates Kept in the Loop
To maintain fairness and transparency: “Recognised political parties are provided with the list of home voters, and candidates may depute representatives to accompany polling teams after due intimation,” the Commission noted.
Facilities for Booth Voters Assured
For those who choose not to opt for home voting: “All necessary arrangements, including volunteers, wheelchairs, and assistance, will be available at polling stations to ensure a comfortable voting experience,” the ECI added.
Home voting in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry has already commenced and will conclude by April 5, ahead of polling day.
With this initiative, the Election Commission has reinforced its vision of “No Voter Left Behind,” making the 2026 elections a benchmark in inclusive democratic participation.
