Election rules amended to allow e-transfer of postal ballot

Upcoming assembly elections might see armed forces service voters receiving their ballots through the internet from the Election Commission (EC).

Upcoming assembly elections might see armed forces service voters receiving their ballots through the internet from the Election Commission (EC).

Government has amended electoral rules to allow service voters, including Armed Forces personnel, to get their postal ballot through electronic means. (AFP File Photo)

A notification announcing the amendment to the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961 enabling service voters, including armed forces personnel, to cast their vote in elections through e-postal ballot was issued on Friday.

Under the new system, the voters will download blank ballot papers, mark their preference and post the filled-up ballot back to their respective returning officers.

“The armed forces personnel serving in remote and border areas would be greatly benefitted since the present system of two-way transmission of ballot paper by the postal services has not been able to meet the expectations of the service voters,” said a source.

The new process will save time consumed by the two-way transmission of ballot paper by post, sources added.

Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Manipur and Goa are going to polls early next year.

According to sources a two-way electronic transmission (or e-voting) has not been recommended by the Election Commission, citing security and secrecy concerns.