CPI(M) Criticises Hurried Electoral Roll Revision During CEO’s Meeting

Thiruvananthapuram: The CPI(M) has strongly criticised the pace and manner of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll, stating that the process is being carried out in a rushed and insensitive manner without addressing public concerns. The issue was raised during a meeting convened by the Kerala Chief Electoral Officer Ratan U. Kelkar on Saturday.

Representing the CPI(M), senior leader M. Vijayakumar said the situation on the ground highlights the excessive pressure placed on Booth Level Officers (BLOs). He pointed out that one BLO had died by suicide and five others had collapsed while carrying out the revision work.

“It is distressing that a procedure that can be completed patiently and properly is being forced through in such haste,” Vijayakumar said. He reminded officials that the legality of conducting the SIR is currently before the Supreme Court, yet no relief or relaxation has been granted.

“In this situation, continuing the process without any humane consideration is unacceptable,” he added, stating that the party condemns the Election Commission’s attitude and its disregard for the difficulties faced by the public.

Political parties across the state, except the BJP, raised similar concerns.

IUML representative Muhammad Shah criticised the accelerated pace of the revision, pointing out that BLOs were asked to return completed enumeration forms by November 23, despite the official deadline being December 4. He warned that pushing BLOs to upload data hastily could affect people’s citizenship records. Shah also noted that 1.19 lakh people could not be traced during the revision but stressed that this cannot be used as a reason for exclusion from the voters' list.

In contrast, BJP leader J. R. Padmakumar avoided addressing the issues raised by other parties and instead claimed—incorrectly—that the LDF and UDF were attempting to turn people against the Election Commission.