Lok Sabha Elections: Here’s a step by step
Lok Sabha Elections: Here's a step by step(Representational Image)
guide for first-time voters on voting process
The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for the 18th Lok Sabha elections, with the first phase set to commence on April 19 (Friday). The subsequent phases will take place on April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1. Vote counting is scheduled for June 4.
In addition to the 544 Lok Sabha seats, four states – Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Sikkim—will hold their state elections simultaneously.
Here’s a guide for first-time voters on the voting process:
Eligibility to vote:
To vote, ensure your name is listed in the voter’s list, which you can verify through your local electoral registration officer or the Election Commission’s website.
Required documents:
Bring any of the following identity proofs:
- Voter ID card
- Aadhar card
- PAN card
- Driving license
- Passport
- Bank/Post office passbook with photo
- Pension document with photo
- MNREGA job card
- Smart card issued by RGI under NPR
- Service identity cards with photos issued by the government or companies
- Health insurance smart cards issued under the Ministry of Labour scheme
- Official identity cards issued to MPs/MLAs/MLCs
Voting process:
- Locate your polling booth: Use your voter ID card’s EPIC number on the Election Commission’s website to find your polling booth.
- Verification process: At the booth, a polling officer will verify your name on the voter list and check your ID proof.
- Inking and documentation: After verification, your finger will be inked, and you’ll receive an acknowledgement slip.
- Proceeding to the polling booth: Hand the slip to the next officer, show your inked finger, and enter the booth.
- Casting your vote: Press the button on the Electronic Voting Machine corresponding to your preferred candidate’s symbol. A beep confirms your selection.
- Verification via VVPAT: A slip will display on the VVPAT machine with your chosen candidate’s details.
- NOTA option: If no candidate suits your choice, select ‘None of the Above’ (NOTA) at the bottom of the EVM.
By following these steps, you can confidently participate in the democratic process.
