How to Register to vote in India To register to vote in India, eligible citizens must be at least 18 years old on the qualifying date, which is January 1st of the year the electoral roll is revised. Voters can register by visiting the official National Voters’ Service Portal (NVSP) and completing Form 6, which is specifically designed for new voter registrations. This form requires personal information, a photograph, and valid identification such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, driving license, or passport. The process can also be completed offline by obtaining Form 6 from the local Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) at the nearest voter registration center. After submitting the form along with the necessary documents, it is essential to track the application status through the NVSP website or by contacting the local ERO. Once the application is approved, the individual’s name will be added to the electoral roll, and a Voter ID card will be issued, enabling them to vote in upcoming elections.
How to Register to Vote in India
How to Register to vote in India is a straightforward process that can be completed online or offline. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check Eligibility: You must be an Indian citizen, at least 18 years old on the qualifying date (1st January of the year electoral rolls are being prepared), and a resident of the polling area of the constituency where you want to be enrolled.
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare a scanned copy of your photograph and valid identification documents such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, driving license, or passport.
- Online Registration:
- Visit the National Voters’ Services Portal (NVSP) at http://www.nvsp.in.
- Click on “Apply online for registration of new voter”.
- Fill out Form 6, which is the application for voter registration.
- Upload the necessary documents.
- Submit the form online.
4. Offline Registration:
- Obtain Form 6 from the nearest Electoral Registration Office (ERO) or download it from the NVSP website.
- Fill out the form manually.
- Attach copies of the required documents.
- Submit the form to the local Electoral Registration Officer or any designated Voter Registration and EPIC Centers.
5. Verification Process: After submission, a Booth Level Officer (BLO) will visit your residence to verify the details provided in the application.
6. Tracking Application Status: You can track the status of your voter registration application on the NVSP website using the reference ID provided after submission.
7. Receipt of Voter ID: Once your application is approved and verified, you will be issued a Voter ID card and your name will be added to the electoral roll of your constituency.
The Eligibility Criteria for Voting in India
To be eligible to vote in India, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: The individual must be a citizen of India. This is the primary requirement for being eligible to participate in the electoral process.
- Age: The individual must be 18 years of age or older on the qualifying date, which is typically January 1st of the year the electoral rolls are being revised. This means if a person turns 18 on or before January 1st, they are eligible to register to vote.
- Residency: The individual must be ordinarily resident of the part/constituency where they want to be enrolled. “Ordinarily resident” refers to the place where the person normally resides, even if they are temporarily living.
- No Disqualifications: The individual must not be disqualified from voting due to any legal or constitutional provision. Disqualifications can arise from unsoundness of mind, corrupt practices and electoral offenses, crimes involving moral turpitude, etc.
- Registration: The individual must be registered on the electoral roll of the constituency where they live. Being of age and a citizen alone does not entitle one to vote; registration is a must.
Required Documents for Voter Registration
To register as a voter in India, you need to provide certain documents that verify your identity, age, and address. Here is a list of documents commonly accepted for voter registration:
- Photograph: A recent passport-sized color photograph is required for identification.
- Proof of Identity: Any one of the following documents can be submitted as proof of identity:
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Indian Passport
- Driving License
- Service Identity Cards with photograph issued by Central/State Government/PSUs/Public Limited Companies
- Bank/Kisan/Post Office current Pass Book
- Student Identity Card issued by Recognized Educational Institutions
- Ration Card
3. Proof of Age: For applicants aged between 18 and 21 years, proof of age is required. Any one of the following documents can be used:
- Birth Certificate
- Marks Sheet of class 10 or 8 or 5 issued by any recognized Educational Board
- Indian Passport
- PAN Card
- Driving License
- Aadhaar Card issued by UIDAI
4. Proof of Residence: Any one of the following documents can be submitted to establish residency:
- Current Bank/Kisan/Post Office Passbook
- Indian Passport
- Ration Card
- Income Tax Assessment Order
- Rent Agreement
- Water Bill
- Telephone Bill (landline or broadband)
- Electricity Bill
- Gas Connection Bill
- Property Tax Receipt
5. Other Relevant Documents: In specific cases, such as for homeless individuals, a declaration by a shelter home or a recognized public authority verifying the individual’s residence may be submitted.
Conclusion
In conclusion, registering to vote in India is an important step for citizens to take part in the democratic process. The eligibility criteria ensure that all participants are appropriately qualified by age, citizenship, and residency. The documentation required supports the verification process, confirming the identity, age, and residence of the voters. By following the clear guidelines provided for online or offline registration, citizens can easily fulfill their civic duty. This process not only empowers individuals to influence government decisions but also reinforces the democratic framework of the nation. Engaging in voting is not just a right but a responsibility of every eligible Indian citizen, contributing to a more participatory and representative democracy.
FAQs
Q: 1. Who is eligible to register as a voter in India?
Ans: Any Indian citizen who is 18 years of age or older on the qualifying date (1st January of the year the electoral rolls are revised) and is an ordinary resident of the constituency is eligible to register. The individual must not be disqualified from voting due to any legal reasons.
Q: 2How can I register to vote in India?
Ans: You can register either online via the National Voters’ Services Portal (NVSP) by filling out Form 6 or offline by submitting the same form at your nearest Electoral Registration Office (ERO).
Q:3.What documents are required for voter registration?
Ans: You need a recent passport-sized photograph, proof of identity (like Aadhaar, PAN card, passport, or driving license), proof of age (if between 18 and 21 years old), and proof of residence (like utility bills, bank passbooks, or rent agreement).
Q: 4.Can I register to vote if I am living temporarily in another city?
Ans: Yes, you can register to vote in your temporary residence as long as you are considered an ordinary resident there, meaning you intend to reside there for an indefinite period. You will need to provide proof of your residence at that location.
