Kolkata, 15 April (H.S.) : The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday began the distribution of Voter Information Slips (VIS) across West Bengal ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.

According to the Commission, polling in the first phase will be held on April 23 across 152 of the total 294 Assembly constituencies in the state.

A senior election official said the voter information slip serves as an important facilitative document for electors. It contains key details such as the voter’s information, polling station location, date and time of voting, along with a brief map of the polling station. It also includes essential guidelines for voters on election day.

This year, the slips have been enhanced with QR code functionality, enabling quick verification of voter details and helping reduce congestion at polling stations. The slip also clearly mentions the part number and serial number of each voter for easier identification.

The distribution is being carried out door-to-door by Booth Level Officers (BLOs). The Commission has directed that the process be completed at least five days before polling to ensure timely delivery to all registered voters.

Additionally, the Commission has instructed that accessible voter information slips (AVIS) with Braille facilities be issued for visually impaired voters.

The ECI has clarified that candidates, their authorized representatives, or Booth Level Agents may accompany BLOs during distribution. However, unauthorized distribution or possession of these slips will be treated as a violation of the law.

In such cases, action will be taken under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including provisions for fines and imprisonment.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh