In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Law Ministry has reduced the age limit for senior citizens who opt for postal ballot in the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.
Postal Ballot Voting
In 2019, the Law Ministry amended the Conduct of Election Rules to allow people with disabilities and those who are 80 years of age or above to opt for postal ballot during Lok Sabha and assembly elections.
The ministry notified a fresh change in the rules, allowing those aged 65 years and above to opt for postal ballot. The age limit was reduced as people who are 65 and above are vulnerable. While amending the rules on the suggestions of the Election Commission, the ministry also allowed COVID 19 suspects or affected persons to use the postal ballot facility.
As of now, people who come under the category of those allowed to use postal ballot have to fill form 12D to avail the facility.
What is Postal Ballot Voting?
Postal voting is a type of voting in elections whereby Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot Papers (ETPB) are distributed to electors and returned by post, in contrast to electors voting in person at a polling station via an electronic voting system aided by Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
