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ECI Streamlines Voting Process for Kashmiri Migrants Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections 2024

Kalyani Jha
12 Apr, 2024

In a significant move aimed at simplifying the voting process for displaced Kashmiri migrants, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the abolition of the cumbersome ‘Form-M’ procedure. This decision is set to ease the voting experience for Kashmiri migrants residing in Jammu and Udhampur ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections 2024.

Under the new arrangement, Kashmiri migrants in Jammu and Udhampur will no longer be required to fill out Form-M. Instead, they will be mapped with Special Polling Stations corresponding to the zones where they are registered or residing. This streamlined approach aims to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles and facilitate a smoother voting process for these individuals.

Additionally, for Kashmiri migrants residing outside Jammu and Udhampur, who will still need to submit Form-M, the ECI has authorized self-attestation of the certificate appended with the form. This removes the need for the certificate to be attested by a gazetted officer, further reducing the hassle faced by these voters.

The decision comes after receiving representations from various Kashmiri migrant groups highlighting the challenges associated with the Form-M procedure, which often posed difficulties in exercising their right to franchise. The traditional Form-M process required specific documentation, proof of migration status, and gazetted officer attestation, making it complex and time-consuming.

With the new arrangement, all 22 special polling stations, including 21 in Jammu and 1 in Udhampur, will be mapped to the respective zones. This ensures that every zone has at least one Special Polling Station, ensuring accessibility and convenience for Kashmiri migrants during the voting process.

The ECI’s initiative reflects a commitment to inclusivity and efficiency in electoral procedures, particularly for marginalized and displaced communities, paving the way for a more accessible and participatory democratic process in the upcoming elections.