May 28, Kathmandu - The Election Commission has received valuable suggestions from stakeholders to ensure polling stations are accessible and disability-friendly. The recommendations were made during a review meeting organized by the Commission to evaluate the 2082 House of Representatives elections conducted across all seven provinces.

Election Commissioner Sagun Shamsher JBR highlighted that key issues discussed included polling station arrangements, infrastructure accessibility for differently-abled voters, and the management of ballot box transportation. 

He pointed out that some polling centers are located in unsuitable places, such as temples, and called for a thorough review of these locations. JBR emphasized that creating truly accessible voting environments requires long-term government policies. Since schools, colleges, and government offices are designated as polling sites, the government must ensure these venues are properly adapted for all voters.

"The Chief District Officer, as the review coordinator, along with representatives from political parties, must collaboratively assess polling stations, centers, and infrastructure for accessibility. If any shortcomings are identified, they need to be addressed. Making polling stations disability-friendly is a policy matter for the government — it cannot be achieved only during elections," JBR stated.

The Commissioner also expressed satisfaction with the overall conduct of the election, describing it as economical, clean, and impartial. He revealed that approximately 150 million rupees saved from the election budget would be returned to the government. Additionally, he claimed that election results were announced more swiftly than in previous years, and no re-voting or related legal issues arose at any polling station.

JBR further noted that invalid votes decreased compared to the 2079 elections, but stressed the need for more effective voter education. He advocated for extending voter awareness campaigns, increasing the number of volunteers, and utilizing digital platforms. He urged political parties to actively participate in awareness drives alongside their campaign activities.

The Election Commission gathered feedback from political parties, security agencies, Chief Election Officers, District Administrators, election officials, volunteers, and observers during the provincial-level review sessions. These insights aim to make future elections more transparent, economical, and efficient.

The review concluded with the assessment of Gandaki Province on Thursday, marking the end of the program, according to the Election Commission.