Karnataka has a whopping 16,976 centenarians, who are eligible to vote, according to the Election Commission (EC). However, they need not go to the polling booths as those above 80 years old can ‘vote at home’ — a facility introduced for the first time, according to the EC.
There are 5.21 crore voters, including 2.59 female voters. The number includes 16,976 centenarians, 4,699 third gender and 9.17 lakh first timers.
Also, there are 12.15 lakh voters above the age of 80 years and 5.55 lakh people with disabilities (PWD).
While the numbers of centenarians and those above 80 have increased, so has the number of first time voters.
Election Comissioners talk to the media
Addressing the media in Bengaluru on Saturday, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, along with election commissioners Anup Chandra Pandey and Arun Goel said: “For the first time, the EC is going to provide the facility (to vote from home) to those above 80 years of age. Our teams will go there with a form-12D to exercise their franchise. Though we encourage those above 80 years to come to the polling station, those who cannot can avail this facility. Secrecy will be maintained and the entire process will be videographed.”
The three-member panel undertook a three-day visit to Karnataka on Thursday to review preparations. The term of the 224-member Karnataka Assembly is set to end on May 24.
“All the political parties will be informed whenever there is a movement for Voting From Home (VFH),” he added.
Mobile application introduced
For people with disabilities, a mobile application ‘Saksham’ has been introduced, in which they can login to and choose the facility to vote, the CEC said.
The EC has also developed a mobile application called ‘Suvidha’ for candidates to file nominations and affidavits.
“Candidates can also use the SUVIDHA portal for seeking permission for meetings and rallies,” the EC said.
KYC campaign launched for the voters
The EC has also launched a campaign called Know Your Candidate (KYC) for the benefit of voters.
“Political parties have to inform the voters on their portals and social media platforms as to why they chose a candidate with a criminal background and gave a ticket to contest the election,” Kumar said.
Polling in 29,141 polling stations would be a webcast and of these, 1,200 are sensitive polling stations.
On the possible election date, the CEC said it has to be conducted before May 24, when the tenure of the current assembly comes to an end.
