Indian expats can register to vote in the UAE by following the guidelines provided
Indian expatriates residing in the United Arab Emirates can exercise their democratic right to vote in Indian elections by diligently and responsibly following the guidelines provided by the Indian embassy or consulate.
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are just around the corner, and Indian expats living in the UAE can make their voices heard by registering to vote. The Election Commission of India has outlined a straightforward process for overseas Indians to become registered voters and participate in the democratic process.
To be eligible to register as an overseas voter, individuals must be citizens of India, currently residing abroad for reasons such as employment or education, and not hold citizenship in any other country. Registration can be done both online and offline, giving expats the flexibility to choose the method that works best for them.
For those who prefer to register online, the National Voters' Service Portal (NVSP) or the Chief Electoral Officer's website is the place to go. By filling out Form 6A and uploading the necessary documents, such as a recent passport-size photograph and self-attested copies of relevant passport pages, expats can initiate the process from the comfort of their homes.
Alternatively, expats can opt for offline registration by visiting the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) or the Assistant ERO of their constituency in the UAE. By filling out Form 6A in person and submitting the required documents, including the original passport for verification, individuals can ensure their registration is processed efficiently.
After the application is submitted, the Booth Level Officer will conduct a verification process by visiting the home address mentioned in the passport. If no relative is available for verification, the documents will be sent to the relevant Indian Mission for validation. Once the verification is complete, the ERO will communicate the decision to the applicant via post and SMS.
It is important to know that NRIs will not receive an Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) and must vote in person at their designated polling station by presenting their original passport. It is also crucial to avoid being enrolled on multiple electoral rolls or casting votes for more than one candidate to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.
Indian expats in the UAE have a valuable opportunity to contribute to the democratic process by registering as overseas voters for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. By following the steps outlined by the Election Commission of India, expats can play a significant role in shaping the future of their country and making their voices heard globally.