Voter registration is the fundamental process through which eligible Indian citizens enroll themselves in the electoral roll to exercise their democratic right to vote. The Election Commission of India has simplified the voter registration process by introducing online registration, making it convenient for citizens across the country to register and obtain their Voter ID card (EPIC). This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about voter ID online registration in India.
[IMAGE::Voter ID Online Registration Guide]
What is Voter Registration?
Voter registration is the process through which an Indian citizen enrolls their name in the electoral roll maintained by the Election Commission of India. Once registered, the citizen is issued a Voter ID card (Electors Photo Identity Card or EPIC), which serves as proof of identity and confirms eligibility to vote in parliamentary, state assembly, and local body elections.
Eligibility Criteria for Voter Registration
To be eligible for voter registration in India, you must meet the following conditions:
Citizen of India: Must be an Indian citizen by birth or naturalization
Age Requirement: Must be 18 years of age or above on the qualifying date (January 1st of the year)
Residence: Must have a permanent address in India
Sound Mind: Must be of sound mind and not disqualified by law
Who Cannot Register to Vote?
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) with citizenship of another country
Persons of unsound mind
Persons convicted of certain criminal offenses
Persons serving a sentence of imprisonment
How to Register to Vote Online in India
The Election Commission of India provides an easy online registration process through the National Voters' Services Portal (NVSP). Here's a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Visit the official Voter Services Portal at https://voters.eci.gov.in or https://www.nvsp.in
Step 2: Create an Account
Click on "Sign up" and provide your mobile number, email ID, and captcha code. Enter the OTP received on your mobile and email to verify your account.
Step 3: Fill Form 6
After logging in, click on "Fill Form 6" under "New registration for general electors". Form 6 is the application form for new voter registration.
Step 4: Enter Personal Details
Fill in all required details in Form 6, including:
Personal information (name, date of birth, gender)
Father's or mother's name
Contact details (mobile number, email)
Aadhaar number (optional but recommended)
Current address and permanent address
Assembly constituency and parliamentary constituency
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies of required documents:
Recent passport-sized photograph
Proof of date of birth
Proof of address
Step 6: Preview and Submit
Review all entered details carefully and click on "Preview and Submit". After final verification, submit the application. You will receive an acknowledgement number for tracking your application status.
Offline Voter Registration Process
You can also register offline by:
Visiting your nearest Booth Level Officer (BLO) office
Downloading Form 6 from the NVSP portal
Filling the form manually with required details
Attaching copies of required documents
Submitting the form to the BLO
Documents Required for Voter Registration
Proof of Date of Birth
Birth certificate issued by Municipal Authority or Registrar of Births and Deaths
Class 10 or Class 12 mark sheet from CBSE, ICSE, or State Education Board
Aadhaar card
PAN card
Driving license
Indian passport
Proof of Address
Aadhaar card
Indian passport
Utility bills (electricity, water, gas) not older than one year
Bank passbook or bank statement from scheduled bank
Registered rental or lease agreement
Registered sale deed
Revenue department land records (Kisan Bahi)
Photograph
Recent passport-sized color photograph (taken within last 6 months)
Forms Required for Voter Registration
Form 6 - New Voter Registration
Form 6 is used for new voter registration by general electors (Indian citizens aged 18 and above).
Form 6A - NRI Voter Registration
Form 6A is used by Non-Resident Indian (NRI) citizens who hold an Indian passport but are living abroad.
Form 7 - Deletion from Electoral Roll
Form 7 is used to apply for deletion of name from the electoral roll in case of death or disqualification.
Form 8 - Correction of Details
Form 8 is used to correct details in the electoral roll, including name, address, photo, age, etc.
Verification Process
After submitting your application:
The Booth Level Officer (BLO) conducts field verification
BLO verifies your address and identity documents
Residential details are cross-checked as per Election Commission guidelines
If verification is successful, your name is added to the electoral roll
Voter ID card is issued and dispatched within 15-21 days
If discrepancies are found, the application may be rejected and you'll need to resubmit
How to Track Voter Registration Status
You can track your voter registration application status by:
Visiting the NVSP portal and logging into your account
Clicking on "Track Application Status"
Entering your acknowledgement number or reference ID
Checking the status of your application (Under Process, Approved, Rejected)
Important Points to Remember
Register before the qualifying date (January 1st) to be eligible for that year's elections
Ensure all documents are clear and valid
Provide accurate information to avoid rejection
Keep your acknowledgement number safe for tracking
Aadhaar linking is optional but helps in verification
You can only register at one address (your current residence)
Duplicate registrations can lead to legal issues
Benefits of Voter ID Card
Identity proof for various purposes
Address proof for official documentation
Eligibility to vote in elections
Required for applying to government jobs in some cases
Accepted as valid ID for various services
Conclusion
Voter registration is a fundamental right and responsibility of every eligible Indian citizen. The online registration process has made it easier than ever to register and obtain your Voter ID card. By following the step-by-step process, submitting accurate documents, and tracking your application status, you can successfully register to vote and participate in India's democratic process.