The Voter ID card is an important document issued by the Election Commission of India, enabling Indian citizens to vote for their preferred representatives during the election. Additionally, it holds a significant value as a KYC requirement for banks and financial institutions, serving as both identity and address proof. Given its importance, every Indian citizen must possess a Voter ID card upon reaching the age of 18.
However, in some situations, you lose your Voter ID card, which can become a hassle during election time or when submitting official documents for some official purpose. During such losses, the cardholder can apply for a duplicate Voter ID card to free himself from such a situation.
Individuals apply for a duplicate Voter ID card under the following circumstances:
When you have lost your original Voter ID card, you need to apply for a duplicate Voter ID card download. The application process for a duplicate Voter ID is quite straightforward and hassle-free. In such a case, you must submit the required application form and supporting documents to your local Electoral Officer.
The Electoral Officer requires a copy of an FIR issued by the local police station specifying the lost or misplaced card details to issue a duplicate Voter ID card. If you lose your original Voter ID Card, the first step is to visit a local police station and file an FIR (First Information Report).
You will need a photocopy of your lost Voter ID card or the ID number to lodge an FIR. In case you do not have your ID number, you can obtain it online from the State Election Commission's website. You can also obtain this number offline by visiting your local party office and consulting an office representative.
Additionally, you must attach a copy of your Voter ID number with an application letter stating the location and time you lost your original card.
Besides the copy of a registered FIR, here is a list of other documents required when applying for a duplicate Voter ID card:
Below is the step-by-step guide to apply for a duplicate Voter ID card online:
Step 1: Visit the official website of your state’s Chief Electoral Officer.
Step 2: Download the Form EPIC-002 from the website.
Step 3: Fill up the form carefully.
Step 4: Attach the required documents with the duly filled form.
Step 5: Submit it to your local electoral office. Upon submitting, you will receive a reference number.
The electoral office will process your application form and verify all the details. Meanwhile, you can track your application status on the official website using the reference number. After successful verification, you will get an intimation to collect your duplicate Voter ID card from the office.
Here is a stepwise process you need to follow with due diligence to apply for a duplicate Voter ID card offline.
Step 1: Visit your nearest electoral office.
Step 2: Obtain Form EPIC-002 from an office representative.
Step 3: Fill in the form with the relevant details and attach all the necessary documents.
Step 4: Submit the form to the office representative.
The office representative will verify your documents and process your application process. After successful verification, you will get an intimation to collect your duplicate Voter ID card from the office.
Here’s how to download duplicate Voter ID card online:
Step 1: Visit the official Voters’ Service Portal.
Step 2: Navigate to the ‘E-EPIC Download’ option and click on it.
Step 3: Enter your registered number or Voter number and password. If you are logging in for the first time, click the ‘Sign-up’ button, fill in the required details and register on the Voters’ Service Portal.
Step 4: Authenticate your details by entering the captcha code and OTP received on your mobile number and click on ‘Login’.
Step 5: Select the ‘EPIC No’ option, enter the Voter ID number and select the state.
Step 6: Click on the ‘Search’ button. The Voter ID details will be displayed on the screen.
Step 7: Click the ‘Send OTP’ button. Enter the OTP and verify it. Once verified, click the ‘Download e-EPIC’ button to download the pdf of the Voter ID card.
Now that you have a clear idea of how to apply, it is in your best interest to initiate the duplicate Voter ID card download process as soon as possible in case your original card is lost. However, verify the procedure and other associated details with your local Election Commission before initiating.
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