Voters over 64, COVID-19 patients can opt for postal ballot

Voters in the Bihar Assembly polls are likely to be the first beneficiaries of the revised guidelines.

Law Ministry has allowed people aged 65 years and above to opt for postal ballot facility.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Law Ministry has reduced the age limit for senior citizens who opt for postal ballot in the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.

Voters in the Bihar Assembly polls are likely to be the first beneficiaries of the revised guidelines.

In October 2019, the Law Ministry amended the Conduct of Election Rules to allow people with disabilities and those who are 80 years of age or above to opt for postal ballot during Lok Sabha and Assembly elections.

The Election Commission, however, approached the government to change the rule as the pandemic could continue till the end of the year.

On June 19, the Ministry notified a fresh change in the rules, allowing those aged 65 years and above to opt for postal ballot.

While amending the rules on the suggestions of the Election Commission, the Ministry also allowed “COVID-19 suspect or affected persons” to use the postal ballot facility.