Accessible Elections | 29 Jul 2019

The Election Commission of India’s Accessible Elections initiative in Lok Sabha Election-2019 has been successful in making the election process more participative and inclusive.

  • During Lok Sabha Elections special focus was given to ensure the participation of Persons with Disabilities (PwD).

Key Initiatives

  • Facilitation for Persons with Disabilities: The electors with disabilities and senior citizens were mapped polling station wise to provide them targeted and need based assistance on the day of poll.
    • Polling Station: All the polling stations in Lok Sabha Election 2019 were equipped with wheelchairs, ramps, sign language expert, signage and transport facility for the convenience of PwD electors.
    • Easy Enrollment Process: To facilitate PwDs during the enrollment process door to door registration drives and a special mobile application was also developed by the Commission for easy registration.
  • Braille Signage on Electronic Voting Machine and Electors Photo Identity Card: EVMs used in the elections were embossed with Braille signage for the visually impaired voters assistance.
    • It was the first time that Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) with braille were provided to the visually impaired electors.
    • Other documents like voters slip, voter guide had braille signage too.
    • Accessibility Observers were introduced, who ensured all the polling stations are accessible to PwDs.
  • Assured Minimum Facilities
    • Basic Minimum Facilities: For the convenience and facilitation of voters, polling stations were equipped with clean drinking water, adequate furniture for voters in the queue, shed, and toilets for the voters.
    • Medical Aid: Facilities like medical aid with basic supplies were also provided on the day of poll.
  • Special Initiatives by State Chief Executive Officers: Other than nationwide initiatives states in mountainous and hilly terrains of Uttarakhand, Himachal, J&K launched Divyang Sarathi and Divyang Dolis for PwDs and senior citizens.

Other Initiatives

Source: PIB