THURSDAY, MAY 02, 2024
Team Herald
The upcoming 2024 elections have brought some major changes in the voting process for the residents of South Goa. The District Election Officer (DEO) of the district has recently notified the schedule for voting by absentee voters through postal ballot papers. This move aims to facilitate the voting process for specific categories of voters, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, COVID-19 suspects or affected individuals, and those on essential services. The DEO has taken this step to ensure maximum participation and inclusivity in the democratic process.
The schedule for voting by absentee voters, namely senior citizens (above 85 years of age) (AVSC), persons with disabilities flagged in the database for the electoral roll (AVPD), COVID-19 suspects or affected persons (AVCO), and absentee voters on essential services (AVES), has been announced by the DEO for the South Goa District. For AVSC, AVPD, and AVCO categories, the voting will occur from April 29, 2024, to May 3, 2024, from 09.00 am to 05.00 pm. On the other hand, for the AVES category, the voting window is scheduled from May 3, 2024, to May 5, 2024, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
This initiative by the DEO is a significant step towards promoting inclusivity and making the voting process accessible for all. The absentee voters will now have the option to cast their votes from the comfort of their homes, without having to physically go to the polling booths. This is especially beneficial for the elderly and differently-abled individuals who face difficulty travelling to the voting centres. Moreover, with the ongoing pandemic, this voting method will also ensure the safety and well-being of these vulnerable categories of voters.
The DEO has further clarified that separate polling teams will be visiting the registered addresses of AVSC, AVPD, and AVCO voters, as given in Form 12D. This will ensure that every absentee voter has a fair chance to exercise their right to vote. The teams will be available from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, providing ample time for the voters to cast their ballots. For AVES category voters, it is mandatory to cast their votes at their respective postal voting centres on the designated dates. This will ensure a smooth and organized process for the voters.
The DEO has urged all eligible absentee voters to take advantage of this opportunity and cast their votes through the postal ballot papers. It is a crucial step towards strengthening the democratic process and ensuring that every vote counts. The voters can also rest assured that all necessary measures will be taken to maintain the secrecy and integrity of their votes.
