New Delhi, October 10 (). The Election Commission has taken a big step to simplify the voting process. Now people will be able to cast their vote by showing any one of the 12 other photo identity documents in addition to their Voter’s Identity Card (EPIC), subject to their name being in the voter list. This announcement has been made through a notification.
The Election Commission is empowered to ensure identity of voters and issue EPIC under the Representation of the People Act, 1951 and Electoral Registration Rules, 1960. EPICs have been distributed to almost all the voters for the by-elections in Bihar and eight assembly constituencies. The Commission had ordered all Chief Executive Officers to issue these identity cards to new voters within 15 days of the final publication of the voter list.
However, some voters may not have EPIC available, so alternative arrangements have been made for their convenience. Those whose name is in the voter list but do not have EPIC, such people can present any one of the following: Aadhaar Card, MNREGA Job Card, Bank or Post Office Passbook with photograph, Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance Smart Card, Driving License, PAN Card, NPR Smart Card, Indian Passport, Pension Document with photograph, Service ID with photograph of Central or State Government, Official Identity Card of MP or MLA or Disability Identity Card (UDID).
However, it is clarified that it is mandatory to have name in the voter list to cast vote. No document will be accepted without name.
Special arrangements have been made to encourage women wearing burqa to vote. In the presence of women officers at polling stations, they will be identified in a dignified manner and their confidentiality will be maintained.
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SHK/VC
