New Delhi: The Election Commission of India enabled postal ballot voting for elderly, PwD and service voters to improve participation in upcoming Assembly elections.
The Commission announced the schedule for elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal on March 15, 2026. Notifications have already been issued for Assam, Kerala and Puducherry.
Under the postal ballot voting system, electors above 85 years and Persons with Disabilities can cast their votes from home. They must submit Form 12D to the Returning Officer within five days of the election notification.
Polling teams will visit such voters at their residences to collect votes as per a pre-announced schedule. This schedule will also be shared with candidates to ensure transparency.
In addition, voters engaged in essential services on polling day can apply through designated nodal officers. These services include fire, health, electricity, transport and aviation sectors.
Postal ballot voting expanded for service and duty voters
Meanwhile, media personnel authorised for poll coverage have also been included under absentee voters. As a result, they can avail the postal ballot voting facility.
Voters on election duty will receive their ballots at facilitation centres. They can cast their vote there while maintaining secrecy, as per ECI guidelines.
Service voters will receive ballots electronically through the Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System. They are not required to bear postal charges for returning ballots.
Authorities said completed ballots must reach Returning Officers by 8:00 AM on May 4, 2026, the day of counting. Therefore, timely submission remains essential for valid voting.
The Commission has also directed officials to brief political parties and candidates on these provisions. It said the measures aim to ensure wider participation and smoother conduct of elections.
