Kerala Local Body Polls: Demand Grows for Postal Ballots
With the Kerala local body elections 2025 approaching, the State Election Commission (SEC) is facing demands to allow postal ballots for voters. Currently, unlike Assembly or Lok Sabha elections, local body polls do not permit postal ballots, which are restricted only to officials on election duty.
Political parties and certain citizen groups have urged the SEC to extend postal ballot facilities to senior citizens, differently-abled voters, and others unable to visit polling stations in person. They argue that doing so would enhance participation and make the process more inclusive, particularly in remote areas or for voters with mobility challenges.
The SEC has acknowledged the demand but clarified that under the existing rules, no provision exists for general postal voting in local body elections. Any changes would require amendments to the conduct rules or legislative approval. Officials said consultations with stakeholders are likely before finalising arrangements for the upcoming polls.
