Shivani Thakur
Published on: April 22, 2022 at 22:14 IST
The Election Commission of India is considering the introduction of Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) facility for overseas Voters.
Chief Election Commissioner of India visited South Africa and Mauritius held multiple meetings, wherein inputs were sought on how to conduct fair and free polls.
“During this visit, a series of meetings were held with the Election commissions of South Africa and Mauritius, as well as interactions with the Non-Resident Indians Community in the two countries,” the Election Commission of India statement said.
“Both Election Management bodies are also MoU partners with Election Commission of India. The three countries share a relationship which is Fundamental, unique and rooted in the collective experiences and cumulative strength of their people.”
According to Official estimate, at least 60-65% of the 1.26 crore people living abroad are likely to be eligible to vote in Indian Elections.
Overseas Electors are allowed to Register in their respective constituencies using form 6A that is available online. At present, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) can cast their Ballots only at their respective polling booths.
The Election Commission, however, wrote to the Law Ministry to expedite the Amendment of the People’s Representation Act, 1951, to extend the postal ballot facility to overseas electors.
“He [Chandra] said that South Africa has made big strides in democracy and would be hosting the next general assembly of Association of World Election Bodies. in October 2022. India has a very intense and active association with Association of World Election Bodies.. Both India and South Africa are the founding members of this organisation. He stated that coming to the land which made Mahatma out of Gandhiji and the land of Nelson Mandela was a veritable pilgrimage for him,” the Election Commission of India statement said.
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