Kerala Parties Seek Halt on Election Commission's Pre-Poll Roll Revision

The CPI(M) and Congress in Kerala contest the Election Commission's timing for the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, claiming it threatens the democratic process. Allegations include potential disenfranchisement and political bias. Both parties demand deferral of the revision until after local body elections to ensure fairness.

Political tensions in Kerala have escalated as both the ruling CPI(M) and the opposition Congress vehemently oppose the Election Commission’s decision to initiate the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Announced on Monday, the SIR impacts 12 states, including Kerala, that are gearing up for local elections. With the revision timed ahead of these elections, the move is alleged to undercut the democratic process. CPI(M) leaders accuse the BJP-led central government of manipulating the Election Commission to further political agendas.

Critics, including KPCC President Sunny Joseph, denounce the decision as irrational, citing potential disenfranchisement of over 50 lakh voters. They demand the revision be postponed until after the elections to preserve electoral fairness.