Actor Prakash Raj, alongside several civil society organisations, has submitted an urgent letter to Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, requesting the state government’s immediate action regarding the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The letter highlights concerns over what the signatories describe as a profound injustice against voters in the state.

Concerns About Voter Deletions

The letter, which includes signatures from representatives of various organisations such as Eddelu Karnataka, Muslim Muthahade Mahaz, Ashirvad, Namma Matha Namma Hakku Vedike, and Nagarika Matha Kavalu Samithi, brings attention to alarming figures. It claims that approximately 1.09 crore voters have been listed on the ASDDO (Additional Special Deletion & Distribution Officer) list, raising concerns that Karnataka has the highest ratio of proposed voter deletions in India.

Particularly concerning is the assertion that nearly half of Bengaluru’s voters are at risk of being removed from the electoral rolls. In over 3,000 polling booths across the city, the proposed deletions reportedly exceed 60 per cent, prompting significant alarm among the organisations.

To address these issues, the signatories are appealing for the Karnataka government to request a three-month extension for the Enumeration Form process. They emphasise the necessity for a methodical revision over the course of a year, rather than a rushed process.

Call For Systematic Voter Verification

The organisations have also made specific demands for a fresh door-to-door verification initiative targeting voters classified as “Shifted”, “Absent”, and “Others”. This call reflects their concern that many eligible voters could unjustly lose their voting rights due to administrative errors.

Moreover, they are advocating for the distribution of Form 8 to voters who have updated their addresses, aiming to ensure that all eligible citizens are appropriately registered. The letter stresses the importance of facilitating voter access to the revision process to avoid disenfranchisement.

In addition to these demands, the groups propose a statewide voter-awareness campaign that would inform citizens about the ongoing electoral roll revision. They propose the establishment of help desks to guide individuals through the process, making it easier for voters to navigate changes in registration requirements.

Political Action And Further Steps

The signatories have urged the Karnataka government to raise this critical issue in the Assembly and pass a resolution should the Election Commission fail to adhere to their requests. They are advocating for swift action to protect the electoral rights of citizens, reflecting their deep concern for voter representation.

If necessary, they have suggested that the state government approach the Supreme Court to safeguard the voting rights of all eligible residents. This escalation is intended as a last resort to ensure that administrative actions do not lead to widespread disenfranchisement.

As the Special Intensive Revision continues, the demands outlined in the letter highlight ongoing tensions regarding electoral integrity and the right to vote in Karnataka. The organisations involved are committed to pursuing these issues to ensure that all eligible voters are able to participate fully in the democratic process.

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