Should the ECI Reconsider Calling Elderly and Sick for Hearings?
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Synopsis
In a bold move, the Service Doctors' Forum in Kolkata threatens to protest against the ECI's summons for elderly and sick individuals to attend hearings. The decision raises serious concerns about the treatment of vulnerable populations and calls for urgent reforms to protect their rights.
Key Takeaways
- The Service Doctors' Forum is mobilizing against the ECI's treatment of elderly and sick individuals.
- Critically ill patients are being compelled to attend hearings, raising ethical concerns.
- There is a call for immediate action to implement home hearings for those over 85.
- Healthcare services are being impacted by the summoning of doctors to hearings.
- The Forum is prepared to escalate their movement if necessary.
Kolkata, Jan 1 (NationPress) The Service Doctors' Forum, a coalition of medical professionals in West Bengal, has issued a warning of a significant protest against the Election Commission of India (ECI). This comes in response to the ECI's decision to summon elderly and clinically sick individuals, compelling them to attend hearings regarding claims and objections on the draft voter list.
Notably, the Forum has previously taken a leading role in mobilizing public action following the tragic incident involving the rape and murder of a junior doctor at the state-run R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata in August 2024.
On Thursday, sources revealed that the Forum has resolved to initiate a movement against the ECI this New Year, decrying the treatment of elderly citizens summoned for the SIR hearing.
Reports indicate that since the initiation of the hearing process in the state, numerous individuals afflicted by various ailments have been affected.
As per the ECI's directives, the sick, elderly, and physically challenged, including those over 80 years old, are required to travel to distant hearing locations and endure long waits. Some critically ill patients have also been compelled to appear at these venues.
While the ECI recently stated that hearings for individuals aged over 85 should occur in their homes, many cases are not adhering to this mandate. Consequently, even vulnerable elderly persons are being forced to attend the hearings.
Individuals with disabilities are likewise being summoned. Alarmingly, healthcare providers responsible for treating hundreds of patients are also being called to these hearings, adversely affecting healthcare services.
A Forum member stated, "In critical situations, such as wartime, exemptions are given to the elderly, the critically ill, the physically challenged, and essential service personnel like healthcare workers. However, this principle is overlooked in the SIR process. Our organization has already communicated with the Chief Election Commissioner, insisting on immediate changes to this inhumane practice."
According to him, if the current circumstances do not improve, they will have no choice but to escalate their movement.
Point of View
The ongoing situation raises significant ethical and humanitarian concerns. It's imperative that the Election Commission reassesses its approach to ensure the dignity and rights of our elderly and sick citizens are upheld. The nation must stand united in advocating for humane treatment of all individuals, particularly those who are vulnerable.
NationPress
06/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Service Doctors' Forum protesting against the ECI?
The Forum is protesting because the ECI is summoning elderly and sick individuals to hearings, which they view as inhumane and a form of harassment.
What issues have arisen from the ECI's summons?
Many elderly and sick individuals are being forced to travel long distances and wait in queues for hearings, which can be detrimental to their health.
What has the ECI stated regarding home hearings?
The ECI has instructed that hearings for those over 85 years of age should take place at their homes, but this has not been consistently implemented.
What actions is the Service Doctors' Forum taking?
The Forum is planning to launch a protest movement to advocate for the rights of the elderly and sick individuals affected by the ECI's summons.
How can the public support the Service Doctors' Forum?
Public support can be shown by raising awareness of the issue, attending protests, and advocating for policy changes that protect vulnerable citizens.
