The voting exercise, part of the Dharapuram (SC) bye‑election, targeted two vulnerable groups: 992 senior citizens aged 85 or older and 244 voters whose disabilities meet the 40 % threshold. Each voter cast a ballot from their residence using Form 12D, which was subsequently accepted by the Returning Officer.
District Collector and District Election Officer Manish Narnaware visited a residence in Ward 6 of Dharapuram Municipality to inspect the voting procedure. His inspection was aimed at confirming that the postal ballot process adhered to the Election Commission of India’s guidelines for these categories of voters.
The operation was supported by 30 dedicated postal ballot teams. Each team comprised an officer authorized to attest Form 13A, a polling officer, a micro‑observer, a police personnel, and a videographer, ensuring both procedural integrity and documentation of the process.
The use of Form 12D for casting votes and Form 13A for attestation reflects the statutory framework that enables senior citizens and persons with significant disabilities to exercise their franchise without leaving home. Acceptance of the ballots by the Returning Officer indicates that the procedural requirements were met.
The successful completion of the home‑based voting exercise underscores the Election Commission’s effort to make the electoral process inclusive, particularly for voters who face mobility challenges. It also demonstrates coordination between election officials, law enforcement, and monitoring personnel to safeguard the credibility of the bye‑election.