In a gesture aimed at enabling seamless travel for voters who are senior citizens or those with mobility challenges, the Election Commission of India (ECI), in coordination with polling booth staff, provided vehicle assistance that transported them to the polling booths and back home.
The initiative received widespread appreciation from the public, especially those who would not have otherwise been able to vote because of age-related mobility problems or other disabilities and lack of conveyance.
“We’re committed to making elections accessible to every citizen, regardless of age or physical ability. Every voter deserves the chance to participate without barriers,” said a polling booth officer.
The vehicle services were busy transporting voters in the early hours, especially because voters tried to be done with their voting duties in the morning.
Volunteers and booth staff assisted passengers with wheelchairs and ensured minimal waiting time.
A 78-year-old woman, Harbans Kaur, told media she was grateful for the special assistance. “This is the first time I didn’t have to worry about how to reach the polling booth,” she said, adding, “The ride was smooth, and the officials and volunteers were very kind.”
Another senior citizen, Kulwinder Singh said that he lived alone and therefore had no one to accompany him to the polling booth. “I live alone and had no one to accompany me, but thanks to the free vehicle service, I didn’t have to miss my vote. Election officials treated me with such respect and it felt like my voice truly mattered today,” he said.
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