Hospital-bound Voters to Cast Ballots in Emergency Room in July
In a groundbreaking move, the Election Commission (EC) has announced that voters who are hospitalized will have the opportunity to cast their ballots at the hospital during the July elections. The EC will also facilitate corrections to any errors in their national identity cards (NID).
EC Sends Letters to Hospitals
On Monday (January 20), the EC sent letters to three hospitals regarding this matter. Mr. Abdul Momin Sarkar, Director of the EC’s NID Wing (Registration and Expatriates), sent the letters to the Directors of the National Burn and Plastic Surgery Institute, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, and Dhaka Medical College Hospital.
It has been reported that the process of updating the voter list with information from the hospitalized individuals has commenced. Many of these individuals, who have brought us our independence during the Liberation War, are still receiving treatment in hospitals. We aim to collect their information and biometrics by visiting them at the hospital. Additionally, if there are any errors or discrepancies in their NIDs, we will provide assistance in rectifying them.
Cooperation for Data Collection
In this regard, assistance is sought from the hospital authorities to ensure the timely collection of information and biometrics from the injured students and the public according to a specified schedule. The program will be conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital on Tuesday and at two other institutions on Wednesday.
The initiative to allow hospitalized individuals to vote is a significant step towards ensuring that every citizen has the opportunity to exercise their democratic right, regardless of their circumstances. This move highlights the commitment of the Election Commission to inclusivity and accessibility in the electoral process.
As we move closer to the July elections, it is crucial to prioritize the participation of all eligible voters, including those who may be confined to hospitals. This initiative not only upholds the principles of democracy but also demonstrates a compassionate approach towards ensuring that every voice is heard in the democratic process.
Let us all come together to support and encourage the participation of every citizen in shaping the future of our nation, regardless of their current situation. The right to vote is a fundamental aspect of democracy, and by extending this right to hospitalized individuals, we are strengthening the foundation of our democratic principles.
