Will CPI(M) Challenge SIR in the Supreme Court Due to 'Administrative Paralysis' Risks?
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Synopsis
The ongoing conflict between CPI(M) and the Election Commission of India over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls raises serious concerns about voter disenfranchisement. As the Kerala government prepares to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court, significant implications for the upcoming local body elections loom on the horizon.
Key Takeaways
- The CPI(M) plans to legally challenge the SIR in the Supreme Court.
- Concerns about voter disenfranchisement are central to the party's arguments.
- The Kerala government warns of administrative paralysis due to simultaneous electoral processes.
- ECI claims that a significant portion of the revision work has been completed.
- High Court suggests that the Supreme Court is the appropriate forum for this case.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 15 (NationPress) CPI(M) state secretary M. V. Govindan announced on Saturday that the party intends to challenge the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in the Supreme Court.
He accused the process of being manipulated to intentionally exclude a segment of voters from the electoral list.
Govindan pointed out that the distribution of forms in Kerala has been ineffective, contradicting the Commission's statement that 80 percent of the task is complete.
The party plans to engage in a comprehensive legal struggle to thwart what he termed an effort to selectively disenfranchise citizens.
Previously, the State government approached the Kerala High Court seeking to suspend the SIR, claiming that the revision would coincide with local body elections, imposing significant administrative pressure.
The government argued that utilizing the same officials for both election responsibilities and the SIR would result in administrative paralysis, as local body elections are scheduled for December 9 and 11, while the SIR deadline is December 4.
Addressing practical challenges, the State contended that managing two major processes simultaneously with the same group of officials is impractical.
In contrast, the Centre argued that the State's request was malicious, highlighting that 55 percent of the revision work has already been accomplished.
The ECI assured the court that the SIR would not impede administrative operations.
After reviewing arguments from both sides, the High Court emphasized that approaching the Supreme Court is the suitable action.
It acknowledged that similar matters are already under review by the Supreme Court in other states, suggesting that this is the proper forum for Kerala as well.
With the High Court allowing for escalation, the State government and CPI(M) leadership are now ready to take their case to the Supreme Court.
Govindan asserted that the party will oppose any actions that undermine the integrity of the voter rolls and will continue the legal struggle as long as necessary.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach the unfolding events in Kerala with a balanced perspective. The legal actions taken by CPI(M) against the SIR highlight significant concerns regarding electoral integrity and administrative efficiency. Stakeholders must ensure that the electoral process remains transparent and inclusive while addressing the administrative challenges posed by simultaneous electoral exercises.
NationPress
15/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a process conducted by the Election Commission of India to update and revise electoral rolls to ensure they are accurate and inclusive.
Why is CPI(M) challenging the SIR?
CPI(M) is challenging the SIR due to concerns that the process may exclude certain voters and create administrative difficulties during upcoming local elections.
What are the dates for the upcoming local body elections in Kerala?
The local body elections in Kerala are scheduled for December 9 and 11.
What did the Kerala government argue regarding the SIR?
The Kerala government argued that conducting the SIR simultaneously with local body elections would lead to severe administrative strain and chaos.
What is the next step for CPI(M) after the High Court's decision?
Following the High Court's decision, CPI(M) plans to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court to seek a resolution.
