Telangana Allows Remote Voting for Those Above 80 as CEC Disables In-Person Voting

In a pioneering move, the state of Telangana in India is set to introduce a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing inclusivity and accessibility in the electoral process. This initiative will enable home voting for citizens aged 80 and above, making Telangana the first state in India to offer such a facility.

Chief Election Commissioner of India, Rajiv Kumar, unveiled this progressive initiative, extending its benefits to individuals with disabilities who have a 40% or greater level of disability. The objective is to ensure that all eligible citizens, regardless of age or physical ability, can participate in the democratic process without encountering the challenges associated with traditional polling stations.

Massive Voter Turnout Expected

The significance of this development is underscored by the fact that over 31 million voters, including more than 15 million women, have registered to cast their votes in the forthcoming assembly elections in Telangana. Additionally, a total of 811,000 new voters in the 18-19 age group are expected to exercise their franchise for the first time. This diverse electorate also includes 2,557 transgender voters and an impressive 7,689 centenarians, reflecting the state's commitment to upholding democratic principles.

Logistical Preparations on a Grand Scale

The logistical preparations for the assembly elections are extensive, with a staggering 35,356 polling stations to be set up across the state. This includes 14,458 in urban areas and 20,898 in rural regions. Furthermore, 27,798 of these polling stations will have webcasting facilities to enhance transparency during the voting process.

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar emphasized that the elections for the 119-member Telangana assembly would be conducted in a fair, transparent, and unbiased manner. To prevent any undue influence, 148 check-posts will monitor state borders with Karnataka, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh. Enforcement agencies will work in close coordination, utilizing a special application to facilitate the sharing of information and deter the influx of liquor, cash, freebies, and drugs during the electoral period.

A Landmark Decision with National Implications

This landmark decision by Telangana not only enhances the democratic process within the state but also sets a precedent for the rest of India. It highlights the importance of ensuring that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to exercise their right to vote, contributing to a more inclusive and representative democracy across the nation. As India continues to evolve, initiatives like these serve as a testament to its commitment to upholding democratic values and expanding access to the electoral process for all citizens.

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