Eligibility and Registration
To vote in India, you must be an Indian citizen and at least 18 years old as of January 1 of the election year. If you meet these criteria, you can register to vote either online or offline. It’s crucial to ensure that your name appears on the electoral roll, which can be verified online or at your nearest polling station.
Documents Required
While the Voter ID card is the primary document required for voting, the ECI has provided a list of alternative photo identity documents that can be furnished if you do not possess a Voter ID card.
Voting Process
On the day of voting, follow these steps to cast your vote:
- Verification at the Polling Station: Present your Voter ID or an alternative photo ID for verification.
- Inking and Slip Collection: After verification, your finger will be inked, and you’ll receive a slip which you’ll hand over to the next official.
- Casting Your Vote: Use the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) to select your candidate. A beep will confirm your vote.
- VVPAT Verification: Check the Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) slip that displays your choice for 7 seconds before it drops into a sealed box.
- Option for NOTA: If you wish to vote for none of the candidates, select the ‘None of the Above’ (NOTA) option on the EVM.
Voting from a Different City
If you live in a different city from your registered polling station, you can still vote. The ECI has made provisions for such voters to ensure their participation.
Senior Citizens and Differently-Abled Voters
Special arrangements, such as home voting facilities, have been made for senior citizens and differently-abled voters to cast their votes comfortably.
Ensuring Your Vote Counts
After casting your vote, double-check to ensure that it has been correctly registered. Any discrepancies should be reported to the presiding officer immediately.
Remember, every vote counts, and your participation is crucial in maintaining the democratic fabric of the nation. Happy voting!