In a move to ensure inclusive participation in the upcoming Lok Sabha General Election 2024, authorities have introduced the option for senior citizens aged above 85 years and disabled voters with over 40 percent disability to cast their votes through postal ballots. This initiative, disclosed by District Election Decision Officer and Collector Ashok Shingare, aims to facilitate voting for those who may face challenges in physically attending polling stations.

The provision for postal ballots is voluntary and targets specific demographics. Eligible voters include individuals aged 85 years or older and those registered as disabled in the voter list, provided they possess a certificate from the appropriate authority verifying a disability exceeding 40 percent. To streamline the process, officials are distributing sample 12D forms directly to qualifying voters at the polling station level.

Since the announcement of the Code of Conduct on 16th March 2024, the distribution of Form 12D has commenced through polling station level officers, who are tasked with assisting voters in completing the necessary paperwork. The deadline for submission of these forms to the relevant Subsidiary Election Decision Officers is set for 17th April 2024.

Voters opting for postal ballots forfeit their right to vote at polling stations. A dedicated team will conduct door-to-door visits according to predetermined schedules to collect postal ballots from eligible voters. However, if a voter is absent during these visits, a final attempt will be made to reach them. Failure to avail of this opportunity will result in the voter forfeiting their chance to vote, whether through postal ballot or at polling stations.

District Election Decision Officer Ashok Shingare and Deputy District Election Officer Archana Kadam have emphasized the importance of seeking assistance from polling centre level officials for any queries or information regarding the process.