With the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 around the corner, the Election Commission of India is promoting voter education and inclusivity. The electoral body on Saturday announced the option of ‘vote from home’ for the elderly and persons with disabilities. In another such move, the EC organised an exhibition cricket match at the Karnail Singh Stadium between the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) and the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) teams.
The match served as a platform to emphasise the significance of accessibility and participation in the electoral process, an official statement stated. Notably, Sheetal Devi, a para-archer and recipient of the Arjuna Award, was honored as the “national icon” in the persons with disabilities (PwD) category during the event.
The match was attended by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar and Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu. The event witnessed a spirited performance from both teams, captivating approximately 2,500 spectators, including PwDs and young voters. The event also aimed to inspire voters with disabilities to enroll and actively participate in the electoral process. Additionally, it marked the launch of a dedicated voters’ guide for PwDs and senior citizens, offering crucial information on provisions available at polling stations to ensure a seamless voting experience.
The event concluded with a rendition of the national anthem in sign language by students from the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC).