Aizawl, June 13, 2025: A meeting of the State Steering Committee on Accessible Elections (SSCAE) was held today under the chairmanship of Dr. Lalrozama, IAS, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Mizoram. The meeting focused on enhancing electoral participation among persons with disabilities (PwDs) in line with the guidelines of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
The SSCAE was constituted to ensure inclusive and barrier-free elections, especially for voters with disabilities. The committee reviewed initiatives taken during the 2023 Mizoram Assembly elections and the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, assessing both achievements and challenges faced by PwD voters.
Key discussions included identifying eligible PwD voters who are yet to be enrolled in the electoral roll and launching a special drive to reach them. District-level Election Departments will collaborate with District Monitoring Committees on Accessible Elections (DMCAE) and District Disability Committees to implement these efforts.
The committee also proposed the selection of PwD Icons at the district level to raise awareness and inspire participation. Special training for polling staff is planned to better understand and address the specific needs of PwD voters.
To ensure barrier-free access at polling stations, the meeting emphasized infrastructure improvements such as wheelchair accessibility, clean drinking water, adequate signage, and safe waiting areas. It was also stressed that approach roads to polling booths be improved and that proper seating arrangements be made for PwD voters.
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Officials from the Directorate of School Education, Directorate of Social Welfare, and Mizoram People Forum (MPF) participated in the meeting, along with PwD Commissioner Pi Vanlaldiki Sailo, State PwD Icon Pu Lalbuaitsaiha, and other senior officials from the Election Department.
The meeting reflects the state's strong commitment to inclusive democracy and ensuring equal voting rights for all citizens.
