Thiruvananthapuram: With the local body elections around the corner and with the COVID-19 pandemic nowhere near to end, Kerala is mulling over postal and proxy votes for patients, those under quarantine and those above 65 years of age. In view of this, the Act might be amended.

Central Government after consulting the Election Commission had amended the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 to permit COVID 19 suspects or affected persons and those under quarantine to vote through postal ballot paper. State election commission had also been considering this. However, Centre had not approved the proxy voting system in which a close relative can cast vote on behalf of them.

As per COVID protocol, those above 65-years of age should remain indoors. Hence the Chief Election Commission had decided on postal votes.

However, Kerala is mulling over both postal and proxy voting system.

The voter’s close relative including spouse, offspring, siblings etc are considered for proxy voting. A photo-bearing authorization letter has to be given to the person entrusted with proxy voting, the format of which will be issued by election commission. Proxy voting is also being considered for polling officials along with postal votes.

Kerala state election commissioner V Bhaskaran said that a decision on postal and proxy votes will be taken after detailed discussions.

Situation in Kerala

It is anticipated that the number of COVID patients in Kerala will be on the increase during August – November. As the new administration has to take office by November 12 at local self-government institutions, the polls can’t be delayed.

Discussion in August

The election commission will hold a discussion with health experts on COVID protocol for polls in August. Also, the commission is considering to increase the voting time as more time will be required while ensuring social distance.