Voters can now use one of the 12 approved identity proofs, aside from the Voter Photo Identity Card (EPIC), to vote in the Maharashtra assembly elections on November 20, according to a recent announcement by the Election Commission of India (ECI). A similar decision was made during the Lok Sabha elections in April this year.
According to the directive, voters with a Photographic Voter ID Card can use it for identification at the polling station. For those without a photo ID card, the ECI has provided a list of 12 acceptable alternative documents to allow their participation in the election process.
The list of approved identification documents includes the Aadhaar card, Employment Identity Card issued under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), passbook with a photo issued by banks or the postal department, the Health Bima Smart Card from the Ministry of Labour, and the driving licence. Other recognized IDs are the PAN card, National Smart Card from the Population Register, passport, pension document, central or state government-issued ID card, and cards from public sector undertakings.
Notably, the special identity card issued by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for persons with disabilities, as well as official identity cards given to members of Parliament, Legislative Assembly, and Council, are also part of the approved identification proofs.
NRIs will need to show their original passport as identification when voting. If a voter has changed their address, they can still use their previous ID card as long as their name appears in the updated electoral roll. To prevent any issues, the Election Office will send information slips to all registered voters at least five days before the election, providing details about polling station locations and other important information. Voters are encouraged to bring both their information slip and a photo ID proof when they go to the polling station.