“INDIA’S 2024 ELECTION: Provision of ID Cards and Braille Voter Slips to Assist 1,800 Visually Impaired Citizens in Gurugram”

To accommodate the needs of 1,800 visually impaired voters in Gurugram, the Election Commission will distribute EPIC (Elector Photo Identification Card) and photo voter slips embossed in Braille script.

DC and District Election Officer Nishant Kumar Yadav expressed that, in consideration of visually impaired voters, Braille will be incorporated onto ballot papers and EVMs.

“Visually impaired individuals will possess their own distinct polling slips, cards, ballot papers, and EVM machines. This measure aims to enhance inclusivity in voting procedures and address the prevalent issue of low turnout among specially-abled citizens,” remarked DC Yadav.

Gurugram, spearheading the state in endeavors to foster inclusivity in Lok Sabha elections, is meticulously focusing on ensuring accessibility for differently-abled individuals during these elections.

Polling stations are being outfitted with an array of amenities for these voters, encompassing wheelchair provisions, polling station ramps, and transportation services. As per the blueprint, transportation services for specially-abled voters will include pick-up and drop-off facilities. Each polling station will be equipped with ramps to facilitate wheelchair movement. Assistance from volunteers of the NCC, NSS, and Red Cross will be arranged to aid them.

Additional wheelchairs will be stationed at polling stations to offer immediate aid as needed. According to regulations, specially-abled voters unable to operate the voting machine themselves can be accompanied by a helper to cast their vote. The accompanying individual must be at least 18 years of age. Those proficient in operating the EVM will be permitted a helper until they exit the voting area.

Local authorities have urged RWAs to identify such voters and collaborate with the administration to extend services to them.