New Delhi, March 22 (MExN): The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed all States and Union Territories to ensure assured minimum facilities (AMFs) and voter assistance at every polling station for the upcoming general elections and bye-elections in 2026.
According to an official press note, the ECI had announced the election schedule on March 15 for the Legislative Assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, along with bye-elections in six states including Nagaland .
The Commission has instructed Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) to equip all 2,18,807 polling stations with essential amenities, including drinking water, shaded waiting areas, toilets with water facilities, adequate lighting and ramps of proper gradient for persons with disabilities (PwD). Standard voting compartments and clear signage are also to be ensured. Additionally, benches are to be placed at regular intervals to assist voters in queues.
To enhance voter awareness, four standardised Voter Facilitation Posters will be displayed at all polling stations. These will include details such as polling station information, list of candidates, voting procedures, approved identification documents and key guidelines for voters.
Voter Assistance Booths (VABs) will also be set up at each polling location, staffed by Booth Level Officers and other officials to help electors identify their polling booth and serial number in the electoral roll. The booths will feature prominent signage for easy visibility.
In a move aimed at improving voter convenience, the ECI has also provided for mobile phone deposit facilities outside polling stations. Voters will be required to deposit switched-off phones before entering and collect them after casting their vote.
The Commission reiterated that the provision of AMFs and accessibility measures is mandatory and will be closely monitored to ensure compliance, with all arrangements to be completed well before polling dates.
