Kerala’s Electoral Roll Revision Sparks Political Debate

Kerala's Chief Electoral Officer Rathan U Kelkar assured political parties their concerns regarding the revised electoral roll will be addressed. Despite criticism about the timing and technical issues, 2.78 crore forms were distributed, and 85% have been returned. The revision aims to finalize before local elections.

In a recent address, Kerala Chief Electoral Officer Rathan U Kelkar pledged to address concerns from political parties regarding the ongoing electoral roll revision. The roll-out, following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), has drawn criticism for its timing and technological challenges encountered by Booth Level Officers (BLOs).

Kelkar reported the distribution of 2.78 crore enumeration forms, with 85% returned, indicating significant participation. Despite the technical issues, he assured that complaints from political parties and any omissions would be addressed by examining the submitted details in line with the Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines.

Political parties, except the BJP, have voiced apprehensions about completing the electoral revision by the December 4 deadline. The draft roll's scheduled publication precedes the first phase of local body elections, raising questions over the Commission's urgency. Kelkar emphasized that the final list aims at ensuring comprehensive voter representation.

(With inputs from agencies.)