New Delhi : The motto of ‘Accessible Elections’ was one among the many initiatives of Election Commission to make the world’s largest democratic exercise inclusive and participative for all. During this election special focus was given to ensure the participation of Persons with Disabilities. A total of 62,63,701 PwDs were registered within an electorate of 910 million.
The electors with disabilities and senior citizens were mapped polling station wise to provide them targeted and need based assistance on the day of poll. During the election all the polling stations were equipped with enough supply of wheelchairs and it was ensured that all polling stations had sturdy ramps for the convenience of PwD electors. All the polling stations in Lok Sabha Election 2019 had a sign language expert, signage and transport facility.
Special focus was laid on the sensitization of the polling personnel about the unique needs of the differently-abled. For smooth and convenient voting experience the elderly and electors with disability were given priority access in the polling station. Further, they were provided with special volunteers who assisted and guided them at the polling station.
EVMs used in the elections were embossed with Braille signage for the visually impaired voters’ assistance. It was the first time that Electors Photo Identity Cards (EPICS) with braille were provided to the visually impaired electors. Other documents like voters’ slip, voter guide had braille signage too. Accessibility Observers were introduced, who ensured all the polling stations are accessible to the PwDs.
Other than nationwide initiatives States also innovated and enhanced the spirit of accessibility. In mountainous and hilly terrains of Uttarakhand, Himachal, J&K initiative of DivyangSarathi and DivyangDolis was rolled out to facilitate PwDs and senior citizens.
