Kolkata, 16 April (H.S.): The Election Commission of India (EC) has initiated home voting in Kolkata from April 16 for senior citizens aged 85 years and above, as well as persons with disabilities (PwDs), marking a step towards a more accessible electoral process.
Under the facility, eligible voters flagged in the electoral rolls will be able to cast their vote from home through postal ballot arrangements. Election officials stated that polling teams, accompanied by central armed forces and local police, will visit the residences of such voters to facilitate the voting process.
The initiative has been rolled out across all Assembly constituencies in Kolkata North, with officials confirming that voters must have applied to their respective Returning Officers within five days of notification to avail the service.
Authorities further clarified that the process is being conducted under strict supervision to ensure transparency and security. While polling teams will collect votes from eligible electors at their homes, necessary protocols have been put in place to maintain electoral integrity.
In addition, the Chief Electoral Officer’s office has activated a toll-free helpline number 1800-345-008 for addressing complaints related to law and order during the voting process.
Officials said the initiative is aimed at improving voter participation among elderly citizens and persons with disabilities, reinforcing inclusive democratic participation ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in the state.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
