Elderly, vulnerable voters overcome odds to vote in Municipal elections

In the municipal elections held in Chittoor, Annamayya, and Sri Sathya Sai districts, elderly and vulnerable voters demonstrated remarkable determination to cast their ballots. Some required assistance navigating steps and crowded entrances, while others struggled against the heat in the November sun. Despite these challenges, their commitment to exercising their franchise brought a sense of humanity to the electoral process.

At Dharmavaram in Sri Sathya Sai district, police officers aided several elderly voters in wheelchairs, helping them reach the polling stations. This heart-warming scene illustrated how election duty could extend beyond maintaining law and order to ensuring that no voter was left behind.

Sri Sathya Sai district Superintendent of Police S. Satish Kumar praised the determination of elderly voters, stating that they refused to be defeated by age, disability, or heat. The police presence at polling booths and mobile teams helped maintain order and provide reassurance, especially to women and elderly voters.

In Chittoor, Madanapalle, Nagari, and Hindupur, candidates from various political parties went above and beyond to assist elderly voters, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. They arranged transportation and provided support from their own doorsteps. To keep voters refreshed, candidates and supporters distributed buttermilk and other beverages at several locations.

Children accompanying their parents received chocolates and biscuits, offering a distraction from the lengthy waits. Drinking water and restroom facilities, including those for pregnant and lactating mothers, were available with minimal complaints.

However, confusion regarding voter lists was reported in several areas of Chittoor and Hindupur. Some people claimed that their polling stations had been transferred to neighboring wards, causing inconvenience for senior citizens and voters with mobility issues.