Before You Go To Vote (Part II): 10 Things To Do For The First Time Voters

Part II: Election Checklist

The elections in the country starts from today. Two states – Assam and Tripura – are undergoing election in six of their constituencies. The great democratic process will pass nine phases on April 7^th, 9^th, 10^th, 12^th, 17^th, 24^th and 30^th, and May 7^th and 12^th before results come out on May 16^th. It is important for us to vote to form a responsible government at the centre.

In Part I of this series, we told you about candidate selection. This part deals with the election checklist.

Before elections in your constituency, you must ascertain few things. For the first time voters, it becomes even more important to check them. So, what are these things? Here is the list:

1. Confirm your registration as a voter. Check whether your name is on electoral roll.
2. If you have changed address or any other information about you has changed, get your registration updated. These changes will reflect on your Election Photo Identity Card (EPIC) and on the electoral roll present with the election officer at the polling booth.
3. Get information about your polling booth and find out how to reach there on polling day. If your constituency has undergone delimitation, find information about your polling station in advance.
4. Identify the candidates, know their party symbol and name so that you do not get confused at the time of voting. Read party manifestos so that you make an informed choice.
5. Know how an Election Voting Machine (EVM) works so that you cast your vote without any problem.
6. Know about poll date and timings and wait patiently for your turn at the polling station.
7. Do not forget to take your EPIC with you on polling day. Know what are the other photo identity documents required in your state that can act as a substitute for EPIC.
8. If you decide not to record your vote, do not sit at home and exercise your right by pressing NOTA (None Of The Above) on the EVM.
9. If your employer doesn’t give time to vote, It is an offence. Please complaint to the Election Commission about the same.
10. Inspire others to cast their vote for a strong democracy.

Do your bit towards the country and make a difference. Happy voting!