Idukki
Nine polling officials, including three women, embarked on an 18-kilometer journey through a dense forest filled with wild animals on Wednesday. Their mission: to record the vote of a bedridden citizen, 92-year-old Sivalingam, in the tribal village of Edamalakkudy, nestled deep within Kerala’s Idukki district.
Sivalingam’s determination to vote despite his age and condition moved the officials. After applying for the ‘vote from home’ facility, a nine-member team was appointed to ensure his participation in the democratic process.
Starting their journey from Munnar at 6 am, the team traveled through Eravikulam National Park before reaching Keppakkadu near Pettimudi, the entry point to Edamalakkudy. From there, they faced a challenging trek spanning 18 kilometers through rugged terrain, encountering wild animals and navigating cobblestone paths and narrow trails.
Arriving at Sivalingam’s simple hut around 1.15 pm, the officials set up a polling booth beside his bed, allowing him to vote in privacy. Despite his struggles to sit up or speak, Sivalingam expressed his gratitude and voted with the assistance of his grandson.
Moved by the experience, the team bid farewell to Sivalingam and quickly returned due to the threat of rain. Despite facing muscle cramps and fatigue, they were thrilled to have completed their mission successfully.
