In a major move towards inclusive and accessible elections, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar has announced that voters with 40 per cent benchmark disability will now be able to vote from the comfort of their homes. This decision has been made with the aim of ensuring that persons with disabilities (PwDs) are not left behind in the democratic process and are able to exercise their right to vote like any other citizen of the country.
According to the latest census, there are over 26 million persons with disabilities in India, making up 2.21 per cent of the total population. However, their participation in the electoral process has been hindered by various physical, social and attitudinal barriers. The decision to allow them to vote from home is a significant step towards breaking down these barriers and ensuring their full and equal participation in the democratic process.
The Election Commission has set a benchmark of 40 per cent disability for this facility, which includes persons with visual, hearing, physical and intellectual disabilities. This means that any person with a disability of 40 per cent or above will be eligible to vote from home. This will not only make the process more convenient for them but also eliminate the need for them to travel to polling booths, which can often be a daunting and challenging task.
In addition to this, the Election Commission has also announced that transport facilities will be provided to PwDs on the day of the election. This will ensure that they are able to reach their designated polling booth without any difficulty. The Commission has also directed all polling booths to be made accessible for persons with disabilities, with ramps, wheelchair facilities and sign language interpreters being made available.
This decision has been widely welcomed by disability rights activists and organizations. It is seen as a major step towards achieving the goal of an inclusive and barrier-free society for persons with disabilities. It also reflects the commitment of the Election Commission towards ensuring that no citizen is left behind in the electoral process.
The move to allow PwDs to vote from home is not only a matter of convenience but also a matter of dignity. It recognizes that persons with disabilities have the same rights and responsibilities as any other citizen and should not be deprived of their right to vote due to their disability. This decision also sends a strong message of inclusion and acceptance to the entire society.
Moreover, this decision is in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which India ratified in 2007. The Convention recognizes the right of persons with disabilities to participate in political and public life on an equal basis with others. By allowing them to vote from home, India is fulfilling its obligations under the Convention and setting an example for other countries to follow.
The Election Commission has also taken various other initiatives to ensure the participation of PwDs in the electoral process. This includes the introduction of Braille-enabled electronic voting machines, accessible voter helplines, and sensitization programs for election officials. These efforts have already shown positive results, with an increase in the voter turnout of PwDs in recent elections.
In conclusion, the decision to allow voters with 40 per cent benchmark disability to vote from home is a significant and positive step towards promoting the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities. It not only makes the electoral process more accessible for them but also sends a strong message of inclusion and acceptance. This decision reflects the commitment of the Election Commission towards ensuring a truly inclusive and democratic society for all citizens of India. Let us all support and celebrate this move towards a more accessible and inclusive electoral process.
