#Elections2019: Name missing in voter-list? Here's how to cast vote
In order to cast vote, a voter must ensure that their name is in the voter list. The Election Commission says one is entitled to vote only if their name is in the electoral roll. However, voters' names could sometimes go missing due to which they might not be allowed to vote. But one can vote even if their name is missing. Here's how.
A deleted voter from Bengaluru was able to cast vote
Recently, a voter from Bengaluru, Mariam Tahoora, wasn't allowed to vote because her name was found deleted from the voter list. However, she learned about the presiding officers' election handbook according to which a deleted voter can vote if they provide sufficient proof of existence. She was able to vote after approaching the presiding officer and showing her Aadhaar card and submitting a photocopy.
Can vote if names are in the deleted list: Miriam
"Initially there was a doubt whether my vote would be counted as disputed one. But thankfully it was not. It was a normal vote" Miriam told TwoCircles.net. "...I feel bad for people whose names are not even in the deleted list and they cannot vote despite having an EPIC. We can still vote if our names are in the deleted list," she added.
Missing Voters mobile app developed by Khalid Saifullah
There is also an app called "Missing Voters" developed by Khalid Saifullah to help voters whose names are missing in the electoral roll. It helps them learn the exact process to cast vote if their name has been deleted from the electoral roll. Section 18 of the Presiding Officers' handbook has the provision that allows deleted voters to cast vote.
Can vote only if name is in ASD list: Saifullah
"The names of so many voters have been deleted. It is not possible that all deleted names will be in the ASD list," said Khalid Saifullah. "...You can vote only if your name is deleted and mentioned in the deleted list... If your name is not mentioned in the deleted list then you cannot do anything. You will have to re-apply," he said.
What's the procedure to vote if your name is missing?
If a voter's name is missing, they can approach the Presiding Officer and check if their name is in the ASD (absent/shifted/dead/duplicate) list. If their name is present, they must provide proof that they are residing in the same constituency. They can submit copies of proof of age and Photo ID and show the originals for cross verification after which they can cast vote.
