A Voter ID Card, also known as the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC), is a photo identity card issued by the Election Commission of India to eligible voters. Its main purposes are to enhance the accuracy of the electoral roll and prevent electoral fraud during elections. Apart from being a crucial document for exercising the right to vote, it also serves as a valid identification proof for individuals when they cast their votes. The EPIC card plays a vital role in ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process in India.
The EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) number is a unique identification number issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on the voter ID card. It consists of a combination of letters and numbers and serves as a distinctive identity proof for Indian citizens who are 18 years of age or older. With the EPIC number, eligible citizens can participate in the electoral process and cast their votes during elections. You can find the EPIC number on your voter ID card, located just above your photograph on the card.
How to find your EPIC number online
1. Go to the official website of the Election Commission of India.
2. Click on the ‘Electoral Search’ option.
3. Fill in the required details, such as your name, age, gender, state, and district.
4. Enter the captcha code for verification.
5. Click on the ‘EPIC Number Search’ option.
6. A list of names matching the provided details will be displayed.
7. From the list, find your name and corresponding EPIC number.
By following these steps, you can easily find your EPIC number online and access your Electors Photo Identity Card information.
Apply for a Voter ID Card (EPIC Card) online
Voter ID Card Online Application:
1. Visit the official portal of the Election Commission’s Voter Service.
2. Create a login account on the portal.
3. Select the appropriate form (Form 6 for New Voter ID, Form 6A for NRI voter application, Form 8 for changes in personal details, and Form 8A for address change).
4. Fill in the form with the required details.
5. Upload all the necessary documents, including a photograph.
6. Review the information and click on ‘Submit’ to complete the application process.
Note: Depending on your specific condition, select the relevant form for your Voter ID application.
Voter ID Card Offline Application:
1. Obtain two copies of Form 6 from the offices of Booth Level Officers or Electoral Registration Officers/Assistant Electoral Registration Officers. The form is available free of cost.
2. Fill in the Form 6 with all the required details.
3. Submit the filled forms and necessary documents to the Electoral Registration Officer/Assistant Electoral Registration Officer in person or via post to the Booth Level Officer.
4. In case of any queries, you can contact the helpline number 1950 for assistance.
By following these steps, you can apply for a Voter ID Card either online or offline and participate in the electoral process in India.
Documents Required for Voter ID Card:
To apply for a Voter ID card, you need to submit the following documents:
1. Identity Proof.
2. Address Proof.
3. Photograph.
Voter ID Card Eligibility:
To be eligible to apply for and obtain a Voter ID card, individuals must meet the following criteria:
1. You must be an Indian citizen.
2. The applicant must be at least 18 years of age.
3. You should have a permanent address.
4. You must be a resident of the polling area of the constituency where you wish to be enrolled.
5. You must not be disqualified as an elector.
By fulfilling these criteria and providing the necessary documents, you can apply for a Voter ID card and exercise your right to vote in the elections.
Uses of an Election Card or Voter ID Card:
1. Accepted Form of Personal Identity: The Voter ID card serves as an accepted and valid form of personal identification for various purposes.
2. Acknowledgement of Registered Voter: It acts as an acknowledgement that the cardholder is a registered voter and is eligible to participate in elections.
3. Identification Features: The Voter ID card includes identification features such as the applicant’s signature, photograph, fingerprints, etc., providing additional assurance of the cardholder’s identity.
4. Prevents Multiple Voting: During elections, the card contains provisions (by way of marking) to prevent the holder from voting multiple times, ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.
5. Suitability for Low-Literacy Population: The design of the Voter ID card can be tailored to suit the electoral requirements of populations with low literacy, making it accessible to a diverse range of voters.
6. Identification for Voters with No Fixed Address: The Voter ID card is especially beneficial as a form of identification for voters who do not have a fixed address, enabling them to exercise their voting rights without any hindrance.
In summary, the Voter ID card serves as an important tool for establishing personal identity, ensuring voter registration, and facilitating smooth and secure electoral processes in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Voter ID Card:
1. How can I apply for a Voter ID card online?
You can apply for a Voter ID card online by visiting the official portal of the Election Commission’s Voter Service, creating a login account, filling the required form, and uploading necessary documents.
2. What documents are required for obtaining a Voter ID card?
Identity proof, address proof, and a photograph are the essential documents required for obtaining a Voter ID card.
3. Can I vote without a Voter ID card?
Yes, you can vote without a Voter ID card by presenting any other valid government-issued photo identification, such as a passport, driving license, Aadhaar card, etc.
4. Can NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) get a Voter ID card?
NRIs can get a Voter ID card by applying through Form 6A, which is specifically for NRI voter registration.
Conclusion:
The Voter ID card, also known as the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC), is a crucial document that serves as proof of identity and voter registration for eligible citizens of India. It plays a vital role in ensuring fair and transparent electoral processes and allows individuals to exercise their right to vote. By adhering to the application process and providing the necessary documents, Indian citizens can obtain their Voter ID cards and actively participate in the democratic process of the country.
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