Voting right of flood victims

Report identifies lack of CNICs , damaged pathways to potential polling stations as barriers for participation

As we approach the upcoming general elections, a sobering report from the Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI) sheds light on the formidable challenges faced by the flood-affected communities in Sindh and Balochistan provinces. The report identifies the lack of CNICs (computerised national identity cards) and damaged pathways to potential polling stations as significant barriers jeopardising the participation of these communities in the democratic process.

Equally concerning is the diminishing interest in political leaders due to insufficient post-disaster rehabilitation efforts, potentially impacting voter turnout. This is particularly true for severely affected areas of like Khairpur, Naushahro Feroz, Naseerabad and Jaffarabad, where the promises of relief and rehabilitation are yet to be fulfilled in its entirety. The severity of the situation is further highlighted by the fact that more than 10 million individuals faced displacement, and 2.1 million homes were damaged in Sindh alone. In Balochistan, approximately 100,000 homes were affected. The financial constraints resulting from the disaster raise the specter of low-income migrated families not returning to cast their votes, potentially creating a democratic void in these flood-affected regions.

To overcome these challenges, both short-term interventions and long-term structural reforms are necessary. Firstly, the establishment of additional Nadra centres, particularly in the flood-affected areas, is crucial to streamline the process of CNIC renewal. The government must collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure that the process is efficient and accessible and adequately addresses the needs of the affected population. Simultaneously, repairing damaged infrastructure, including roads and designated polling stations or school buildings, is of paramount importance. Ensuring accessibility to these locations is essential for upholding the democratic right to vote for all citizens. Authorities should consider deploying mobile registration and voting facilities to remote areas to mitigate the impact of damaged infrastructure on voter turnout.

A democratic process that excludes a significant portion of the population is inherently flawed and undermines the principles of inclusivity and representation. It is imperative to recognise the importance of addressing these issues not only as a response to immediate concerns but as a commitment to the fundamental tenets of democracy.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 14^th, 2024.

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