Hyderabad DEO Prioritizes Accessibility for Disabled Voters

Hyderabad, November 23: Deputy District Election Officer (DEO) Anudeep Durishetti stressed the Election Commission of India’s unwavering commitment to ensuring accessibility for all, particularly for disabled voters, during the upcoming TSLA elections scheduled for November 30th.

Inclusive Polling Stations and Specialized Arrangements

To facilitate seamless participation for voters with disabilities, a voter awareness program was conducted for Persons with Disabilities (PWD) associations at Panwar Hall, GHMC headquarters on Thursday. Deputy DEO Durishetti emphasized that essential infrastructure is being installed across 4,119 polling centers in the Hyderabad district to accommodate voters with disabilities. Dedicated thematic polling stations designed for the disabled are being established in 15 constituencies. Ramps and wheelchairs will be readily available at all polling centers to ensure easy access.

Ensuring Convenient Transportation and Information Dissemination

Furthermore, arrangements have been made for transportation, with a dedicated Transport Nodal Officer overseeing the provision of vehicles for the disabled. This vehicle facility can be accessed through the Awadham app developed by the Election Commission of India. Deputy DEO Durishetti urged disability associations to disseminate this information widely among their community members.

To ensure that disabled individuals are well-informed about the voting process, voter information slips are being distributed specifically to them. Moreover, the district administration is making concerted efforts to ensure that the votes of the 22,000 disabled individuals in the district are fully utilized. Specially designed awareness programs, including sign language instruction for mute and deaf individuals, are being implemented to empower them with the knowledge of their voting rights. Additionally, braille-printed ballot papers are being provided for the visually impaired.

Dedicated Support Services for Enhanced Participation

To further support disabled voters and senior citizens, initiatives led by NCC and NSS volunteers have been set in motion. Home voting has been facilitated for PWD voters, and an extensive campaign is underway to encourage disabled individuals to exercise their voting rights.

A Collaborative Effort for Inclusive Elections

The voter awareness program was attended by Additional Commissioners Chandrakant Reddy, Srivatsa Kota, PD Saujanya, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Padmaja, Joint Commissioner Mangatayaru, and others. This concerted effort underscores the commitment of the Hyderabad District Election Office to ensuring an inclusive and accessible electoral process.

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