Are COVID-19 patients allowed to vote in Ludhiana West by-polls ?
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana (Punjab), May 27, 2025 – The Election Commission of India (ECI) has carified about the participation of Covid patients in Voting.The commission has
allowed Covid-19 affected or suspected individuals to cast their votes through postal ballots in the upcoming Ludhiana West Assembly by-election, scheduled for June 19, 2025.
Invoking the powers under Section 60(e) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the Commission has specified that Covid-positive or suspected persons, certified by a competent health authority, will be eligible to vote from home.
These individuals must apply for postal voting, and their request will be verified by the concerned Returning Officer.This provision is in accordance with the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961, as amended by the Ministry of Law and Justice’s notification (SO No. 1964(E), dated June 19, 2020).
It ensures that infected or quarantined voters are not disenfranchised and can safely participate in the democratic process without risking public health.The by-election to the 64-Ludhiana West Assembly Constituency was officially notified on May 26, 2025, under Section 30 of the Representation of the People Act.
The ECI has also reiterated that all such cases will be handled under strict verification protocols, and further instructions and guidelines issued by the Commission will be followed to ensure a smooth and safe voting process.