Context
- The Election Commission of India has directed Chief Electoral Officers to ensure inclusive and accessible elections for persons with disabilities.
- The move focuses on improving accessibility during the election process to strengthen electoral participation and democratic inclusion.
Key Highlights
- The Election Commission has instructed the issue of accessible voter information slips to persons with visual disabilities.
- These slips will include Braille features.
- The initiative aims to remove voting barriers and increase participation of voters with disabilities.
Detailed Insights
- The initiative reflects the commitment to inclusive elections under the principle No Voter Left Behind.
- It promotes electoral independence and dignity for voters with disabilities.
- It enables equal access to voting information, an essential component of universal adult franchise.
Relevant Constitutional and Legal Provisions
- Article 14 – Equality before law.
- Article 21 – Right to dignity.
- Article 326 – Universal adult franchise.
- Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016 – Mandates accessibility and reasonable accommodation.
- Election Commission guidelines promote inclusive democracy.
Government Initiatives for Accessible Elections
- SVEEP – Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation Programme.
- Accessible Elections Initiative 2018.
- Home voting facility for PwDs and senior citizens above 85 years.
- Wheelchair provision, ramps and volunteers at polling stations.
Challenges
- Lack of disabled-friendly infrastructure in some polling stations.
- Shortage of trained staff to assist persons with disabilities.
- Limited assistive technologies such as tactile ballots and audio support.
- Difficulty in ensuring secrecy of vote while providing assistance.
Way Forward
- Strict implementation of accessibility guidelines at all polling stations.
- Use of technology-based solutions such as mobile apps for PwD voters.
- Training and sensitisation of polling staff.
- Awareness campaigns to improve voter turnout among persons with disabilities.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 2 – Electoral reforms, welfare of vulnerable sections, inclusive governance.
- Ethics (GS 4) – Empathy, dignity, equality in public service delivery.
Possible Mains Question
Accessible elections are essential to strengthen democracy in India. Discuss the measures taken by the Election Commission to facilitate voting for persons with disabilities and suggest further improvements.