What is the process of Voting as a Service Voter?

Once you have received your ballot papers, follow the steps mentioned below to cast your vote as a service voter¹:

Step 1

• Put a tick mark (✓) or cross mark (x) next to the name of the candidate you want to vote for.
• You must not write or mark anything on the ballot paper that would reveal your identity.

Step 2

• Fill Form 13A declaring that you have cast your postal ballot. Attest it by a notary/stipendiary magistrate or the commanding officer of your unit, ship or establishment (depending upon which wing of the armed forces you are from).
• If you are a government official serving abroad, you must get it attested by the diplomatic or consular representative of India at the country where you are posted.

Step 3

• Note down the serial number of your ballot paper on the Form 13B cover and Place your marked ballot paper inside it and seal it according to the instructions.

Step 4

• Put your duly filled and sealed Form 13A and Form 13B in the envelope provided (Form 13C). The envelope will already be addressed to your Returning Officer.
• You do not need to affix any postal stamp on your envelope.
• If you are a government official casting your postal ballot then you can send it either by airmail or as a diplomatic package.
• Post it by the time and date timelines mentioned.

If you send it after the fixed time, your vote will not be counted.

1. Service Electors FAQ, Election Commission of India, available at https://eci.gov.in/faqs/voter-electors/service-voter/faqs-service-electors-r13/ [↩]