Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) V. Anbu Kumar on Wednesday, 8 July categorically rejected allegations of irregularities in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state, asserting that the exercise is being conducted strictly in accordance with Election Commission of India (ECI) guidelines. Speaking at a press conference in Bengaluru, he dismissed claims by political parties that the Election Commission in Karnataka was colluding with the state's Congress government.

CEO's Rebuttal of Collusion Allegations

Anbu Kumar described the collusion allegations as 'absolutely false,' stating he categorically denies them. He said photographic evidence exists showing Booth Level Officers (BLOs) conducting door-to-door visits to distribute Enumeration Forms to voters. He acknowledged that complaints about lapses have been received and acted upon, with show-cause notices already issued to more than 35 BLOs.

On the NDA's demand to halt and restart the SIR exercise, the CEO declined to comment directly. He said the complaint filed by BJP and Janata Dal (Secular) (JD-S) Union ministers would be examined and a report submitted to the ECI. 'I have no reaction to such statements. I cannot discuss certain issues,' he said.

Scale of the Exercise and Distribution Progress

Anbu Kumar underlined the sheer scale of the SIR, noting that Karnataka has approximately 59,050 BLOs deployed across the state. He said Enumeration Forms have reached every BLO on time and have been distributed to voters. As of his statement, Karnataka had achieved 80.85 per cent distribution of Enumeration Forms through the prescribed door-to-door process.

In Bengaluru, progress has been comparatively slower — currently at over 46 per cent — partly because some BLOs began the exercise a day or two later than scheduled and faced difficulties reaching residents during working hours. Anbu Kumar said distribution in the city is expected to reach 80 to 90 per cent within the next two to three days.

Allegations of Improper Distribution Channels

Responding to specific allegations that Enumeration Forms were being distributed at mosques, madrassas, and community centres rather than through home visits, the CEO said the Election Commission acted immediately after receiving complaints on 1 July. He said all District Election Officers (DEOs) and Assistant Election Officers (AEOs) have been repeatedly instructed that BLOs must conduct door-to-door visits and hand forms directly to voters — the only approved procedure. He added that if any specific complaint about group distribution at common venues is received, it will be investigated immediately.

Allegations that schoolchildren were being used in the SIR exercise were also raised at the press conference. Anbu Kumar said the matter would be looked into.

Complaint Mechanism and ECI Oversight

The CEO said all complaints received — including oral complaints — have been individually examined and necessary instructions issued to the concerned officials, with reports also submitted to the ECI. He noted that since 2 July, no major complaints have been received. He added that the Deputy Election Commissioner had also reviewed Karnataka's SIR progress and reiterated that every complaint would be examined in accordance with law.

On the state government's directions regarding the distribution of permanent residence certificates, Anbu Kumar said these would be verified in the next phase of the exercise. He assured all voters and political parties that the SIR will be completed strictly in accordance with ECI directions and that every procedure is being followed as per law.