New Delhi, April 15 (IANS) The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday began the distribution of Voter Information Slips (VIS) for the upcoming Legislative Assembly elections, with the exercise currently underway in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal (for Phase 1 voting), where polling is scheduled for April 23.

According to the Commission, the VIS is aimed at providing voters with essential information required on polling day. The slip contains details such as voter particulars, polling station location, date and time of voting, along with a snapshot of the polling station map. It also includes a list of “Dos and Don’ts” to guide voters during the electoral process.

In a move to enhance efficiency, the VIS features a QR code that enables faster search and matching of voter details. Officials said this is expected to help reduce crowding at polling stations and streamline the voting process, ensuring a smoother experience for electors.

The ECI further stated that steps have been taken to improve the readability and accessibility of the slips. Key details such as part numbers and serial numbers have been made clearly legible to assist voters in easy identification and use.

The distribution of VIS is being carried out by Booth Level Officers (BLOs), who are personally visiting households to deliver the slips to registered voters. The Commission has directed that the distribution process be completed at least five days before the polling date to ensure timely access for all electors.

To make the slips more voter-friendly, the Commission has also mandated that they be printed only in the languages in which the electoral roll is published in the respective constituencies.

Special provisions have also been introduced for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The ECI has directed the issuance of Accessible Voter Information Slips (AVIS) with Braille features for visually impaired voters, in addition to the regular VIS.

The Commission clarified that candidates, their agents, or Booth Level Agents (BLAs) may accompany BLOs during the distribution process. However, it warned that any unauthorised possession or distribution of election material, including VIS, would attract penal action under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Importantly, the VIS can be used as a standalone identification document at polling stations. However, voters also have the option to present any one of the 12 authorised identity proofs, including Aadhaar, PAN, passport, driving licence, or a bank passbook, apart from the Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC), to cast their vote.

–IANS

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