Early birds: Senior citizens lead the way, cast votes early
As the sun rose over the city, the Ludhiana West segment witnessed a heartening sight on Thursday morning as senior citizens were among the first to arrive at polling booths to cast their votes.
Braving age and mobility challenges, many elderly voters turned out right at 7 am when pol
ling officially started, determined to cast their votes before the summer heat becomes intense.
“I always cast my vote early, and today was no different,” said 72-year-old Ram Kishan, a retired schoolteacher, who arrived at the polling booth after morning walk.
“The early hours are peaceful and more importantly, cooler. It’s the most comfortable time for elderly residents to come out,” he said.
Voting across Ludhiana West began with tight security and well-organised arrangements. At several booths, senior citizens could be seen patiently waiting in line, some supported by walking sticks or accompanied by family members.
“Voting is my right and no physical challenge can stop me from exercising it. I came early to avoid heat and crowd. It’s my way of showing that every vote counts, no matter what,” said Gursharan Kaur, who came on a wheelchair.
“After my morning yoga routine, I came straight to the booth,” shared 68-year-old Gurmeet Kaur.
“For us, beating the heat is essential. Arrangements were smooth and staff were helpful,” she said.
Early turnout was significantly driven by elderly voters, many of whom see voting not only as a right but a responsibility. “I’ve never missed a vote since I was eligible,” said 76-year-old Sohan Singh with pride. “Summer or winter, this is one contribution I can always make to my country,” he said.
The early morning enthusiasm displayed by the elderly serves as a powerful reminder of civic responsibility. Age may slow the step but it doesn’t dampens the spirit.
EC offers free transportation to old, PwD
In a citizen-friendly move aimed at ensuring inclusive participation, the Election Commission (EC) has provided vehicle assistance to senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PwDs) during the bypoll held here on Thursday.
The initiative received widespread appreciation from the public, especially elderly voters and individuals with mobility challenges, who were able to cast their votes with dignity and ease.
Election officials arranged dedicated vehicles in coordination with polling booths, allowing voters to travel comfortably from their homes to centres and back.
“We’re committed to making the election accessible to every citizen, regardless of age or physical ability. Every voter deserves the chance to participate without barriers,” said an official.
Many voters availed of the service in the early morning hours, taking advantage of the cool weather and streamlined arrangements. Volunteers and booth staff assisted passengers with wheelchairs and ensured minimal waiting time.
Among those who cast their votes with the help of the facility was 78-year-old Harbans Kaur.
“This is the first time I did not have to worry about how to reach the polling booth,” she shared gratefully. “The ride was smooth, and staff were kind,” she said.
“I stay alone and had no one to accompany me but thanks to the free vehicle service, I didn’t have to miss my vote. Staff treated me with respect and it felt like my voice truly matters today,” said Kulwinder Singh, another senior citizen.
Ludhiana