Intensive Voter Roll Revision: Ensuring Accurate Representation
The Election Commission plans a nationwide special intensive revision of voter rolls, using the last revisions from 2002-2004 as the cutoff. Most voters won't need new documentation. However, 40% must provide documents for birth verification. An extra declaration form is required for certain applicants, amid political scrutiny over potential voter exclusions.
- Country:
- India
The Election Commission has announced plans for a comprehensive special intensive revision (SIR) of voter rolls across India, using previous roll revisions from 2002 to 2004 as the cutoff point. This extensive exercise aims to clean up voter lists, with the process likely to conclude by year's end, officials confirmed.
Chief electoral officers nationwide have been instructed to prepare electoral rolls from their state's last SIR, with many already accessible online. For instance, Delhi's last revision was in 2008. Meanwhile, the exercise has sparked political debate as opposition parties question its timing, suggesting it may disenfranchise eligible voters lacking proper documentation.
The Election Commission, under scrutiny by the Supreme Court, has introduced an additional 'declaration form' for applicants needing electoral roll alterations or relocating from outside their state. The form requires proof of birth in India before specific dates, ensuring no eligible voter is excluded in poll-bound states like Bihar.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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