Photo credit: Election Commission
Challenges related to mobility, vision, and hearing are common among elderly individuals, potentially hindering the elderly individuals ability to participate in voting. However, numerous measures are in place to ensure that senior citizens can vote at polling stations in a manner that respects their dignity. In a bid to make the electoral process truly inclusive and participative, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has introduced groundbreaking measures aimed at breaking barriers for voters above 85 years of age and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) with a 40% benchmark disability.
One of the most significant advancements is the provision for home voting, allowing eligible voters aged 85 and above, as well as PWDs meeting the specified disability criteria, to cast their ballots from the comfort of their homes. This initiative not only promotes accessibility but also ensures that every voice is heard in the democratic process, regardless of physical limitations.
When accommodating senior citizens, a key consideration is the accessibility of polling locations. This involves features like wheelchair ramps, ample seating, and clear signage for guidance. Placing polling stations in easily reachable areas is crucial to minimize travel distances for elderly individuals and those with mobility challenges.
To further enhance accessibility at polling stations, the ECI has deployed volunteers and provided wheelchairs to assist voters with mobility challenges. Additionally, transportation facilities have been arranged to ensure that PWDs and elderly voters can easily reach their designated polling stations, thereby removing logistical barriers that may have previously hindered their participation.
To address potential issues faced by older voters waiting in long lines, many polling stations have implemented priority queuing systems.
In line with the commitment to inclusivity, the ECI has also introduced the Saksham app, specifically designed for PWDs to avail themselves of various facilities at polling stations.
Saksham ECI App: Empowering individuals with disabilities
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has enhanced its app for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), now known as Saksham ECI, to promote accessibility and inclusivity in the voting process. This software offers tailored services to assist PwDs in exercising their voting rights more conveniently.
With a focus on enhancing usability and accessibility, the Saksham ECI app has undergone a significant update, ensuring that users with varying abilities can easily access all features. The app's user-friendly layout enables PwD electors to navigate effortlessly using screen readers, text-to-speech services, visibility enhancements, and color adjustments.
The Saksham ECI app caters to the diverse needs of PwD voters, from registration to utilizing services on election day. Users with disabilities require a functional mobile phone to receive one-time passwords (OTPs) for authentication, ensuring their privacy and security.
Key features of the Saksham ECI app include:
1. Registration Services: PwDs can request new voter registration, self-identify as PwDs, transfer their vote to another location, update voter details, or delete their registration.
2. Authentication and Status Tracking: Users can verify electoral information with Aadhaar and track the progress of their app requests.
3. Facilities and Services: Information on available options for voters with disabilities, such as wheelchair provisions, transportation services, and polling assistance, is provided.
4. The app enables users to access various voter-related information, including electoral roll details, polling station locations, candidate profiles, and accessibility-related articles and videos. Additionally, a complaint form, resources, and FAQs are available.
From registration to election day services, the Saksham ECI app serves as a comprehensive platform for PwD voters, facilitating a seamless interaction. Its availability on both the Apple Store and Google Play Store ensures broad access for users across different mobile platforms.
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