Assam polls: 101-yr-old voter felicitated in Kokrajhar under home-voting drive

Kokrajhar, April 1: Reflecting the Election Commission’s motto of “No Voter to Be Left Behind”, the Kokrajhar district administration on Wednesday felicitated a 101-year-old voter as part of its Home Voting initiative.

District Commissioner and District Election Officer Dr P Uday Praveen visited centenarian Sukali Barman at her residence in the 3-Kokrajhar Legislative Assembly Constituency and acknowledged her lifelong participation in elections, describing it as a powerful example of civic commitment.

“Voters like Sukali Barman embody the true spirit of democracy and serve as a source of inspiration for all sections of society,” he said, highlighting her enduring engagement with the electoral process.

Despite her advanced age, Barman continues to actively participate in elections, underlining that democratic participation transcends age and physical limitations.

Reiterating the administration’s focus on inclusive elections, Praveen said special efforts are being made to ensure accessibility for elderly and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) voters.

“We are committed to facilitate elderly and vulnerable voters through initiatives like Home Voting, ensuring that every eligible citizen is able to exercise their franchise with dignity and ease,” he said.

The Home Voting facility, introduced by the Election Commission of India, allows senior citizens aged 85 and above, as well as PwD voters, to cast their ballots from their homes.

Officials said the initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen inclusive electoral participation across Kokrajhar vis-à-vis the state.

Across Assam, the Home Voting initiative has seen a notable response. According to Election Commission data, 19,774 elderly voters have been cleared for the facility so far ahead of the Assembly polls.

Around 19.32% of eligible senior citizens in the state have opted for home voting, as per an official statement issued on March 30.

Authorities added that elderly and PwD voters who have not opted for home-voting will be provided assistance at polling stations, including wheelchairs and volunteer support, to ensure a smooth voting experience.

Data also shows that Assam has 2,482 voters aged 100 and above, comprising 932 men and 1,550 women, with no representation from the third gender in this category.