Has Kerala Achieved 96% Enumeration in SIR Despite Ongoing Concerns?
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Synopsis
Kerala's electoral process faces scrutiny despite achieving over 96% distribution of Enumeration Forms. With local body elections approaching, concerns about inclusivity and timing arise as political parties call for a halt to the ongoing revision. Can the state meet its electoral goals amid these challenges?
Key Takeaways
- 96% of Enumeration Forms distributed in Kerala.
- Concerns over inclusivity and timing with local elections.
- Political parties call for a halt to SIR amid confusion fears.
- Support systems established for Booth Level Officers.
- Tragic suicide of a BLO prompts statewide protests.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 18 (NationPress) The Chief Electoral Officer's (CEO) Office in Kerala declared on Tuesday that there has been remarkable advancement in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Electoral Rolls, with over 96 percent of Enumeration Forms successfully distributed throughout the state.
This accomplishment is credited to the unwavering efforts of Booth Level Officers (BLOs), backed by district administrations and the electoral framework.
To streamline the form collection and data input, district administrations have established specialized camps, logistical support systems, and dedicated centers equipped with advanced technical infrastructure to assist BLOs in digitizing the forms promptly.
Political parties have been encouraged to appoint Booth Level Agents (BLAs) and create help desks to aid in the collection process, thereby lightening the burden on BLOs.
Despite the CEO’s claims of significant progress, reports from various areas suggest that many households have yet to receive the SIR forms, raising concerns regarding the process's inclusivity and consistency.
There are also doubts about whether the operation can be completed effectively within the designated timelines.
The broader concern arises from the timing of the SIR, which overlaps with the preparations for the two-phase local body elections set for December 9 and 11.
The state government, along with the CPI(M), Congress, and the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML)—the second-largest party in the UDF alliance—has approached the Supreme Court requesting a halt to the ongoing SIR, contending that conducting both activities simultaneously could result in administrative confusion, inaccuracies, and voter exclusion.
In light of these issues, the CEO's office has reiterated its recognition of the exemplary commitment shown by BLOs and field staff, calling for ongoing cooperation from voters, political parties, and the media.
They emphasized that the SIR is a collective endeavor, ensuring that no BLO or election worker faces undue hardship during the process.
However, a state government official voiced concerns, stating, “We are encountering numerous pressures, and it’s a daunting task, especially with the added scrutiny from superiors,” highlighting the challenges faced in the SIR enumeration.
This distressing situation was compounded by the recent suicide of a BLO in Kannur on Sunday, which sparked statewide protests by BLOs on Monday.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the substantial progress made in Kerala's electoral roll revision while also recognizing the valid concerns raised by various political entities regarding inclusivity and administrative efficiency. The upcoming local body elections add further complexity to the situation. It is imperative that the electoral process remains transparent and inclusive.
NationPress
18/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Enumeration Forms have been distributed in Kerala?
More than 96 percent of Enumeration Forms have been distributed across Kerala.
What are the concerns regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
Concerns include the inclusivity of the process and whether it can be completed on time, especially with local body elections approaching.
Why are political parties requesting a halt to the SIR?
Political parties argue that conducting the SIR simultaneously with local body elections may lead to administrative confusion and voter exclusion.
What measures have been taken to assist BLOs in the process?
District administrations have set up special camps and logistical support systems, along with technical infrastructure, to aid BLOs in collecting and digitizing forms.
What tragic incident occurred involving a BLO?
A BLO in Kannur committed suicide, leading to statewide protests by BLOs, highlighting the pressures faced in the enumeration task.
