Discuss in groups-What role do such measures play in a democracy? Do you know of anyone who Class 8
Discuss in groups-What role do such measures play in a democracy? Do you know of anyone who Class 8
Question 1.
Discuss in groups-What role do such measures play in a democracy? Do you know of anyone who benefited from these improved accessibility measures? How might they increase voter participation in your neighbourhood? How can technology assist? (Page 121) Class 8
Answer:
These measures ensure that every eligible citizen, including the elderly, disabled, and those in remote areas, can participate in the electoral process. This helps uphold the principle of Universal Adult Franchise and strengthen democracy by making it inclusive.
Yes, I know of an elderly neighbour who was able to vote from home during the 2024 general elections using the postal voting option.
These measures can encourage more people, especially those with physical limitations or mobility issues, to vote by making the process easier and more accessible.
Technology can assist by providing Braille-enabled voter cards, mobile apps to request assistance, and ensuring polling stations are equipped with tools like ramps and support for the disabled. This helps remove barriers and enables more inclusive participation.
Question 2.
If you have access to the internet, visit the ECI website (https://www.eci.gov. in/persons-withdisabilities). Read and identify the various interventions that the ECI has taken to facilitate voting by people with disabilities. Class 8
Answer:
The Election Commission of India is dedicated to making voting accessible for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). PwD voters are registered under four categories: visual impairment, speech and hearing disability, locomotor disability, and others. They can register online, at service centres, or via the Saksham app. Key initiatives to assist PwDs include:
- Mapping PwDs polling station-wise for better support.
- Ensuring polling stations are on the ground floor.
- Providing PwD-friendly facilities and separate queues.
- Offering optional home voting.
- Issuing voter ID cards and slips in Braille.
- Adding Braille features on voting machines.
- Providing wheelchairs, ramps and free pick-and-drop transport.