New Delhi, Oct 15 (UNI) As Bihar gears up for its upcoming Legislative Assembly elections and bye-elections across seven states on November 6 and 11, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has unveiled a host of new measures aimed at making the voting process more accessible for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) and senior citizens.
In a bid to ensure that no voter is left behind, the ECI has directed Chief Electoral Officers across Bihar’s 20 districts to position all polling stations on ground floors or at road-level entrances. These polling venues will be equipped with ramps designed with appropriate gradients, facilitating easy access for wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges.
To further streamline the voting experience, PwDs and senior citizens will be given priority access to polling booths, reducing wait times and ensuring dignity during the process. Recognizing the unique needs of visually impaired voters, the Commission has mandated the distribution of Voter Information Slips featuring Braille, in addition to the regular slips.
Under Rule 49N of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, visually impaired voters may be accompanied by a companion to assist with voting. However, to encourage independent voting, dummy ballot sheets with Braille inscriptions will be available at every polling station, along with Braille-enabled Ballot Units on EVMs to facilitate autonomous voting.
Transportation support will also be provided on polling day, with PwD voters able to request transport and wheelchair assistance via the Divyang (Saksham) Module on the ECINET platform. These facilities will be accessible across all 90,712 polling stations in the state.
Highlighting its commitment to empowerment, the ECI has assigned 292 polling stations to be exclusively managed by Persons with Disabilities, marking a significant step toward inclusive governance.
These initiatives reflect a broader push by the Election Commission to break down barriers and uphold the democratic right of every citizen, regardless of physical ability. With these enhanced provisions, Bihar’s elections are poised to set a benchmark for accessibility and inclusivity in India’s electoral landscape.
