To the Esteemed Election Officers of BMM 2024,

We, the undersigned, write to let you know we are so sad and strongly disappointed about the recent decision to disqualify Vidya Joshi from the upcoming election because of her inability to be physically present in the election hall because of a medical emergency that restricted her mobility. 

Violation of Democratic Principles: Democracy is founded on the principles of fairness, justice, and equal opportunity. Disqualifying a candidate who is experiencing a medical emergency contradicts these foundational principles. Vidya Joshi has demonstrated her commitment and capability to participate in the election process. Her disqualification due to a temporary, involuntary medical condition undermines the democratic process, depriving voters of the right to choose their preferred candidate based on merit and vision, not physical presence.

Ethical and Moral Considerations: The decision to disqualify Vidya Joshi is both unethical and morally indefensible. It is unjust to penalize an individual for circumstances beyond their control. Vidya was on her way to the BMM convention on the early morning flight from Toronto to San Jose on June 26th. Unfortunately, she slipped at the airport, resulting in a significant injury to her foot and hips, causing drastic pain. An X-ray revealed a hairline fracture, and her doctors advised against travel to avoid further complications. Vidya's situation warrants empathy and support, not punishment. Such a decision lacks compassion and fails to consider the basic human decency owed to someone facing a serious medical condition. 

Detailed Account of Events:

• Vidya Joshi, a candidate for the BoT, was on her way to the BMM convention on the early morning flight from Toronto to San Jose on June 26th.
• She slipped and sustained major injuries to her foot and hips, resulting in drastic pain. An X-ray confirmed a hairline fracture. Her doctors advised her not to travel to prevent further complications.
• Around 12:43 PM on June 26th, Vidya informed the election officers of her condition through an official email, phone calls, and texts, seeking guidance on the process given her inability to attend.
• On June 27th, Vidya communicated with BMM representatives, explaining the incident and her inability to attend the convention.
• Vidya asked for updates but received no communication from the election officers.
• She sent a follow-up email on June 28th at 9:17 PM EST, reminding and asking for updates regarding the process.
• An email was received from the Election Committee around 11:00 PM EST stating that they would be meeting the next morning and would get back to her.
• Until the meeting at June 29 ,2024 4:00 PM EST, there was absolutely no communication or any discussion with the candidate, despite more than three days having passed.
• Despite her proactive communication and intent to attend, Vidya was suddenly disqualified just before the election without any advance notice or opportunity for a hearing.

Lack of Due Process: It is truly mind-boggling that the election officers would choose to disqualify Vidya Joshi at the last minute, without following proper due process. This sudden decision, made without any prior notice or opportunity for Vidya to be heard, raises serious questions about the intent and fairness of the election process.

Previously Allowed Proxy Votes: Historically, our organization has permitted proxy votes, allowing representatives to cast votes on behalf of those who could not be physically present. We recognize that the standard expectation is for a candidate to attend in person. However, we must consider the scenario where a candidate, despite having full intent to be present, encounters an unforeseen accident. Such an incident could occur at any moment, even just outside the meeting hall, necessitating immediate medical attention. Is it reasonable to expect a candidate to forgo urgent medical care to avoid disqualification? This recent disqualification decision, made without prior notice to the candidate, seems to undermine the very principles of fairness and due process that our volunteer organization upholds. It appears more as an attempt to penalize the candidate in a 'gotcha' situation rather than ensuring a just and equitable election process.

Precedent for Future Elections: Allowing this disqualification to stand sets a troubling precedent. It implies that any candidate facing temporary physical incapacity, regardless of the severity or legitimacy of their condition, can be unfairly disqualified. This could deter many qualified and dedicated individuals from participating in the political process, fearing that their candidacy could be jeopardized by unforeseen health issues. We must ensure that our electoral process is inclusive and fair, accommodating all individuals, regardless of their physical condition.

Right to Representation: Disqualifying Vidya Joshi disenfranchises not only her but also the voters who support her. Her constituents have the right to see their chosen representative on the ballot. This decision unfairly strips them of their voice and undermines the principles of representation and inclusivity that our democracy is built upon. The electorate deserves the opportunity to vote for the candidate of their choice, based on her policies, character, and vision, rather than her physical ability to be present in the election hall.

Technological and Procedural Alternatives: In today's technologically advanced world, there are numerous alternatives to ensure the participation of candidates who are unable to be physically present. Remote participation, proxy representation, and other accommodations can be made to allow candidates to fulfill their obligations without compromising their health. By utilizing these alternatives, we can uphold the principles of fairness and inclusivity in our electoral process.

Conclusion: We respectfully urge the election officers to reconsider and reverse the decision to disqualify Vidya Joshi. Ensuring her place on the ballot is a matter of ethical integrity, democratic justice, and legal right. Let us demonstrate that BMM's electoral system is inclusive, compassionate, and upholds the rights of every individual, regardless of their physical condition.

We trust that you will give this petition the serious consideration it deserves and take immediate action to rectify this unjust situation.