How to Vote in India: Eligibility, Registration Process, Required Forms and check status

Voting is a fundamental right of every Indian citizen, and it plays a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future. In order to exercise this right, individuals need to register themselves as voters. The Election Commission of India (ECI) is the governing body responsible for voter registration and conducting elections in the country.

This article will guide you through the process of registering to vote in India, both online and offline, ensuring that you can actively participate in the democratic process.

Eligibility Criteria for Voter Registration:

Before diving into the registration process, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria for becoming a voter in India. To register as a voter, you must meet the following qualifications:

1. You must be an Indian national.
2. You must be at least 18 years old as of January 1st of the year in which you are registering.
3. You must be a resident of the district from which you are seeking enrollment.

Online Process to Register to Vote in India

The online registration process provides a convenient way to register as a voter. Follow the steps below to register online:

1. Visit the National Voters’ Services Portal (NVSP) website at https://electoralsearch.eci.gov.in/.
2. Download and fill out Form 6, which is available on the website.
3. Submit the completed form to the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) in your respective state.
4. The ERO will verify the application and add your name to the voter list.
5. There are three main groups of voters: the general electorate, overseas electors (NRI), and service electors.

How to Confirm Voter Registration in India?

Once you have completed the registration process, it’s important to confirm your voter registration to ensure that your information is accurate. Follow these steps to check your registration status:

1. Visit the election website at https://electoralsearch.in/.
2. Enter your reference ID to access your registration information.
3. Verify that your registration is complete and up to date.
4. If any changes are required, you can update your information on the electoral roll through the Election Commission (EC) website.

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Offline Process to Register to Vote in India

If you prefer to register offline, you can follow these instructions:

1. Visit the nearest Booth Level Officer (BLO) to obtain Form 6.
2. Fill out the form and submit it along with the following documents:
   • Aadhar card
   • Birth certificate
   • Additional document serving as confirmation of birth
   • Affidavit explaining the unavailability of any required documents (if applicable)
   • Two passport-sized photos
   • Photocopy of a family member’s voter ID (if available) or neighbor’s card (if no family member has an ID)
3. The BLO will verify the documents and provide you with a voter ID.

Forms Required for Registering to Vote in India

Different forms are required for various situations. Here are the forms you may need:

• Form 6: This form is required for first-time voters and those who want to switch their constituency.
• Form 6A: NRIs (non-resident Indians) must complete this form.
• Form 7: Use this form to make modifications to your information on the electoral roll.
• Form 8: If you need to update details such as your name, photo, age, EPIC number, address, date of birth, name of a relative, type of relation, or gender, complete this form.

Process to Check Voter Registration Status

To verify your voter registration status, follow these steps:

• Visit the website https://electoralsearch.in/.
• Enter your details to check if your name appears on the electoral list.
• If your name is listed, you are already registered to vote. If not, you should register as a voter on the website.

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