Why is the <b>DMK</b> Opposing the <b>Special Intensive Revision</b> of Electoral Rolls?
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Synopsis
In a heated political climate, the AIADMK challenges the DMK government’s opposition to the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Tamil Nadu, alleging fears of reliance on fraudulent votes. This ongoing controversy raises crucial questions about electoral integrity as the state moves toward the 2026 Assembly elections.
Key Takeaways
- AIADMK claims DMK fears SIR due to reliance on bogus votes.
- Protests organized across Tamil Nadu highlight the issue.
- Need for transparent voters' list ahead of 2026 Assembly elections.
- Calls for appointment of impartial officers to safeguard the process.
- Public opinion divided over implications of the SIR.
Chennai, Nov 20 (NationPress) The AIADMK has raised concerns regarding the DMK government's fierce resistance to the Election Commission's ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Tamil Nadu, suggesting that the ruling party is apprehensive about this initiative due to its alleged dependence on fraudulent votes during elections.
During a protest in Chennai, led by AIADMK's organization secretary and former Fisheries Minister D. Jayakumar, the party emphasized its long-standing appeal to the Election Commission to eliminate names of deceased voters and individuals who have moved away from their registered addresses.
He pointed out that despite numerous requests, significant progress had not been made until recently.
Jayakumar noted that the Election Commission initiated the revision process only after persistent pressure from the AIADMK.
“Isn't it essential to remove the names of those who have passed away?” he questioned, asserting that the DMK habitually exploited such names as a tool to cast false votes.
He accused the ruling party of consistently benefiting from inflated voter lists, claiming that the SIR has become a challenge for the DMK solely because it aims to purify the rolls.
“The DMK relies on bogus votes, making them uneasy with this revision,” Jayakumar alleged.
The AIADMK leader also took aim at Greater Chennai Corporation Commissioner J. Radhakrishnan, claiming he is “acting in the interests” of the DMK.
The Corporation has faced criticism from opposition parties regarding alleged irregularities in the recent phases of SIR, including accusations of political interference in the appointment and operations of election-related personnel.
Jayakumar stated that many Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are struggling to fulfill their responsibilities due to political coercion and called for the urgent appointment of “capable, impartial officers” to safeguard the integrity of the process.
He further accused the DMK of misrepresenting the SIR as an effort to suppress voters.
“This is not about eliminating genuine voters. It’s about ensuring that only qualified names remain on the rolls,” he explained.
The AIADMK, which has staged district-level protests throughout Tamil Nadu regarding this matter, reiterated the necessity of a transparent and accurate voters’ list ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
The Election Commission is currently undertaking the SIR across the state, reviewing claims and objections while verifying voter lists at the booth level. The EC has yet to respond to the political claims but has affirmed that the process will proceed as planned.
Point of View
This controversy underscores the vital importance of electoral integrity. The ongoing tensions between the AIADMK and DMK highlight the challenges of ensuring accurate voter representation in the democratic process. As the nation observes these developments, the focus remains on safeguarding the electoral framework, which is crucial for maintaining public trust in governance.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is an initiative by the Election Commission to update electoral rolls and ensure they reflect accurate voter information, removing names of deceased voters and those who have changed residences.
Why is the AIADMK protesting against the DMK's opposition?
The AIADMK is protesting because it believes that the DMK's strong resistance to the SIR is rooted in fears of losing power due to reliance on fraudulent votes.
What are the implications of the SIR for the upcoming elections?
The SIR aims to create a transparent and accurate voters’ list, which is essential for ensuring fair elections in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu.
How has the public reacted to the SIR?
Public reaction varies, with some supporting the AIADMK’s push for a clean voters' list, while others view the DMK's opposition as a valid concern regarding potential voter suppression.
What role do Booth Level Officers (BLOs) play in the SIR?
Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are responsible for verifying voter information at the booth level during the SIR process, ensuring the accuracy of the electoral rolls.
