Staff of the Arushi, voluntary organisation working for the empowerment of the disabled, called on the Madhya Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer (MP CEO) to make the polling booths accessible for the disabled, here on Wednesday.
Persons with disabilities although being eligible voters are often not able to vote because of lack of facilities at polling booths. Thus Arushi has decided to assist them to closest booth. Wheel chairs would also be available. People have to just make a call on 9425007858 or 4293399 or 2550827 and the volunteers of Arushi will help them with their assistance.
The organization has come out with special appeal for the persons with physical challenges to come out to vote on Thursday, April 17, 2014. We also make an appeal to the volunteers who can support this democratic cause by offering their services. Anybody who wishes to volunteer can call the above mentioned numbers and become part of the unique initiative.
Authorities at Arushi said that though the disability Act in India calls for non-discrimination, in every election and even in last elections, many disabled voters have not been able to casted their vote. Neither polling booths are disabled friendly nor is any support available for disabled people. Probably the percentage of such voters is small so parties do not feel the need to address the issue.Notably, other than activities for the awareness and sensitization, Arushi also helps the persons with disabilities in the city to caste vote and exercise the franchise by deploying a team of volunteers who would be a phone call away to assist them.