Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 24 (NationPress) Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan unveiled new strategies on Wednesday aimed at aiding eligible voters encountering challenges due to the recent voter list updates, including the launch of a permanent nativity card designed to simplify the verification of residence and identity within the state.

During a press briefing, Vijayan explained that in preparation for the 2025 comprehensive electoral roll revision, the Election Commission has eliminated 24,08,503 individuals from the preliminary list.

“Moreover, 19,32,000 voters listed in the draft must re-verify their details with documentation to maintain their voting eligibility, as all individuals aged 18 to 40 are required to connect their records with the 2002 electoral roll,” he stated.

This situation, CM Vijayan expressed, imposes a “significant burden” on citizens striving to assert their voting rights.

Vijayan pointed out that numerous individuals who were previously on voter rolls, including those who participated in the 2021 Assembly and 2024 Parliamentary elections, are now being excluded.

“In some polling places, the absence of considerable numbers of voters is concerning,” he remarked.

He highlighted polling station 138 in Sreevaraham, where out of 1,224 registered voters, information for 704 was missing.

“Similar occurrences have been reported throughout the state,” Vijayan added.

“To guarantee that no eligible voter is overlooked, the government will establish support desks at village offices, and where such facilities are absent, at nearby government establishments. Two officials will be temporarily appointed at each desk to assist the public. Mobile teams will also reach out to remote, coastal, and underprivileged areas to identify eligible voters. Anganwadi workers, ASHA staff, and Kudumbashree members will be engaged as necessary. Awareness initiatives will be executed in schools and colleges to ensure that all students above 18 are accurately included in the voter list,” said Vijayan.

Regarding nativity, Vijayan mentioned that the cabinet has approved the issuance of a permanent photo-based nativity card to succeed the existing nativity certificate.

“This card will function as a legally valid document for accessing government services, social programs, and other administrative needs, thereby abolishing the necessity for multiple certificates. The Revenue Department will formulate the legislation, and the distribution will be overseen by Tahsildars,” he explained.

Vijayan emphasized that these initiatives are intended to uphold citizens’ fundamental right to vote and ensure that proof of residence and identity is both straightforward and legally recognized, thereby fortifying democratic participation across Kerala.