The Election Commission favours proxy voting and e-ballot for NRIs but not voting in Indian embassies abroad. It says the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) does not favour voting in missions abroad.
“We are not opposed to anything. But will do anything that can be feasible,” Chief Election Commissioner VS Sampath said.
He said a committee comprising officials from the EC, law Ministry and the MEA had gathered opinions from all sections before submitting a report to the apex court.
Sampath said any move to allow NRIs use proxy voting on the lines of defence personnel and e-ballot facility will require changes in the law. “It will require a legislative framework. The lawmakers will have to apply their mind,” he said.
He said if the proposal sails through, then NRIs will be sent ballot papers electronically and they will have to return it to poll authorities “physically”.