Varanasi Electoral Roll Revision: Booth-Level Verification Underway
In Varanasi, a special intensive revision of photo electoral rolls for the legislative assembly is currently in progress, as directed by the Election Commission of India. This initiative aims to ensure the accuracy and completeness of voter lists ahead of upcoming elections.
Schedule and Booth-Level Activities
According to the commission's fixed schedule, February 22 is designated as the date for reading the voter list at booths. All booth-level officers (BLOs) will be present at polling stations from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. During this time, they will have the ASD/uncollectable list and will read the draft voter list aloud. Additionally, BLOs will receive forms 6, 6A, 7, and 8 from the public for various voter registration updates.
Oversight and Legal Compliance
Additional District Magistrate (Administration) and Deputy District Election Officer, Bipin Kumar, emphasized that district election officials, including the district election officer, deputy district election officer, all electoral registration officers, assistant electoral registration officers, and supervisory officers, will conduct visits to the booths. Legal action will be taken under the relevant sections of the Representation of the People Act against any BLO found absent during these visits, ensuring strict adherence to the process.
Public Participation and Accessibility
All educational institutions, offices, and other institutions in the district where polling stations are established will remain open to facilitate public access. Kumar appealed to the general public to visit their designated booths on January 18 to check their names in the published draft voter list. Individuals who turned 18 years of age on January 1 and are not yet registered can submit Form-6 along with a declaration (Annexure-4) in the prescribed format for new voters. Other forms include Form-7 for deletion of names and Form-8 for correction or transfer of entries, with complete details and necessary documents required.
Online Submission Options
To enhance convenience, voters also have the option to fill in and submit Form-6, Form-7, and Form-8 online, providing a digital alternative to in-person submissions. This move aims to streamline the voter registration process and encourage broader participation in the electoral system.