ECI Empowers Journalists: Postal Ballot Voting Allowed for Poll Coverage Duty

By:- The Punjab Wire

Chandigarh, March 29:- In a significant move aimed at upholding democratic rights, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has extended the privilege of postal ballot voting to media personnel engaged in poll day coverage for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

CEO Sibin C elaborated on the development, stating that as per the recent notification by the ECI, journalists authorized for poll day coverage, along with personnel from six state government departments, are now eligible to vote via postal ballot under Section 60 (c) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

Highlighting the inclusivity of the decision, CEO Sibin C emphasized that journalists holding ECI-issued authorization letters for poll day coverage have been categorized as essential service personnel. This designation places them alongside staff from various government departments, including the Department of Local Government (Fire Services), Department of Transport, Department of Jails, Department of Home Affairs and Justice, Department of Power, and Department of Health and Family Welfare.

The CEO reiterated that this measure is aimed at ensuring that individuals fulfilling service commitments are not disenfranchised, guaranteeing equal opportunity for all eligible voters to participate in the electoral process.

The decision underscores the commitment of the ECI to facilitate democratic participation and uphold the fundamental right to vote, ensuring that every voice is heard in the democratic process.