Phase 3 of Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Begins: Learn How to Vote 'Without' a Voter ID Card

As Phase 3 of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections kicks off today across 94 constituencies spanning 12 states and Union Territories, the pivotal role of the voter ID card emerges. Beyond being a mere piece of identification, it symbolizes citizens' active engagement in shaping the nation's destiny. However, what happens if you find yourself without your physical voter ID card on polling day? Fear not, as per the Election Commission of India (ECI), there are provisions in place to ensure your voting rights remain intact, even without the physical card.

Here's a comprehensive guide on how to cast your vote sans the physical copy of your Voter ID card:

Key Points to Remember:

• Physical Voter ID not obligatory, but enrollment with EPIC (Electoral Photo Identity Card) is essential.
• Memorizing the EPIC number isn't necessary.
• Name must be enlisted in the electoral roll.
• A valid government-issued photo ID card is required.
• Voter registration is mandatory.

Steps for Voter Registration:

Before diving into the voting process, ensure you're registered as a voter:

Pre-requisites: Must be an Indian citizen, aged 18 or above as of January 1 of the year of the electoral roll revision, and not disqualified under any law.

Required Documents: Passport-size photo, age proof (birth certificate), address proof (Aadhaar, bank passbook, APL/BPL cards, letters from reputed organizations).

Registration Process:

Visit "https://voters.eci.gov.in."

Select Form 6 for Indian citizens or Form 6A for overseas voters.

Sign up on the ECI platform.

Fill in the required details and upload supporting documents.

Submit the form to complete the registration.

Checking Enrollment Status:

Track your registration online:

Visit "https://voters.eci.gov.in."

Click on "Track Application Status" under Services.

Log in with your credentials.

Check the current status of your application.

Verifying Your Name in the Electoral List:

Ensure your name is on the electoral roll -

Visit 'https://electoralsearch.eci.gov.in/'.

Choose one of the three search options: 'Search by Details,' 'Search by EPIC,' or 'Search by Mobile,' and follow the prompts.

With the formalities sorted, here's how you can cast your vote even without the physical copy of your Voter ID:

Authorized Documents:

• PAN card
• Aadhaar Card
• Driving Licence
• Passport
• Service ID card issued by state/central government
• PSU MGNREGA job card
• Health insurance smart card by Ministry of Labour and Employment
• Passbook with photograph from a bank or post office

Pension document for retired personnel

Alternative Method:

Alternatively, utilize the e-EPIC service provided by the Election Commission of India to download a digital copy of your Voter ID in PDF format. This digital copy can be stored on your phone, uploaded to Digilocker, or printed and laminated for use at the polling booth.

While the physical Voter ID card holds significance, the electoral process ensures inclusivity even without it. By adhering to the guidelines outlined by the Election Commission of India and utilizing authorized identification documents, citizens can exercise their democratic rights seamlessly, contributing to the nation's future.