New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has reaffirmed its commitment to uphold the guidelines established by former Chief Election Commissioner T N Seshan in 1994, ensuring dignified and accessible voting for ‘Pardanasheen’ (Burqa-clad) women in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections.

In a statement on Thursday, the ECI referred to the 1994 directive titled: “General elections to State Legislative Assemblies-1994 – Special facilities in polling stations for women electors.” The commission noted that it is actively "implementing Ex CEC TN Seshan decisions of 1994 on Pardanasheens in Bihar."

The term ‘Pardanasheen’ describes women who, due to cultural or religious practices, refrain from appearing in public spaces or before male officials without a veil.

T N Seshan’s 1994 directive instructed election officials to make special provisions that respect these practices while guaranteeing a fair and secure voting process. The order emphasised that the Chief Electoral Officer, District Election Officer, Returning Officer, Assistant Returning Officer and Presiding Officer are responsible for ensuring these women can cast their vote in the presence of female polling staff.

“Where the number of female electors is significant (say, 50 per cent or above) and the system of Burqa or purdah is observed as a social custom, at least one Polling Officer must be a lady Polling Officer in each such polling station,” the 1994 order specifies.

It further clarified, “If women officials are not available in the required number, the Returning Officer or Presiding Officer has the authority under Rule 34(2) to appoint ‘any woman to serve as an attendant’ at the polling station.”

With Bihar set for a two-phase election next month, the Commission’s renewed implementation of these inclusive guidelines is seen as a step toward enhancing female voter participation, particularly in rural and conservative regions of the state.

IANS