In a first, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar announced on Saturday that individuals aged above 85 years and those with over 40 percent disability will have the option to cast their votes from homes in the forthcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024.
Addressing a press conference to unveil the Lok Sabha election schedule, Kumar revealed, “We are ready to take vote at home for those above the age of 85 years. Before nominations, we will send Form 12 D to their homes to choose the option.” While this initiative has been piloted in select areas during assembly elections, it marks the first nationwide implementation.
Kumar emphasised that if eligible voters opt for voting from home, arrangements will be made to conduct the process at their residences. However, provisions will also be made available at polling booths for those who prefer to cast their votes in person.
The move aims to facilitate democratic participation for a significant segment of the population. According to Kumar, there are approximately 85 lakh registered voters aged above 85 years and 88.4 lakh voters classified as Persons with Disabilities (PwD). Additionally, the electoral rolls include 21.18 lakh centenarians.
With a staggering 97.8 crore eligible voters, comprising 49.72 crore male and 47.1 crore female voters, the upcoming polls for 543 Lok Sabha seats will unfold in seven phases. Commencing on April 19 with voting for 102 seats in the first phase, the electoral process will culminate in the counting of votes on June 4.