Issue of Postal Ballot for Election Duty Personnel in Goa

The Goa State Election Commission has issued orders regarding the procedure for issuing postal ballots to Presiding Officers, Polling Officers, and public servants on election duty who are unable to vote at their designated polling stations. The facility is currently available only for elections to the Zilla Panchayat and City Council (CCP). Applicants must submit Form 18 (for ZP) or Form XX (for CCP) to the Returning Officer at least four days before the poll date. Postal ballot papers are identical to ordinary ballot papers. The Returning Officer must verify eligibility, issue the ballot, and maintain records. Ballots are to be marked and deposited during the second round of training in a designated ballot box. Police personnel must have a nodal officer to manage applications and submission. Strict adherence to procedures under the Goa Panchayat and Zilla Panchayat (Election Procedures) Rules, 1996 and CCP Rules is mandated.