The Bharatiya Janata Party has accused the Telangana government of serious lapses in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, alleging that forms were distributed in bulk through camps organized by the All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen in Hyderabad. The party also pointed out that voters belonging to the same family are listed under different polling booths in the GHMC, CMC, and Malkajgiri municipal corporations, hampering the work of Booth Level Officers.
BJP's Allegations of Irregularities
According to the BJP, the SIR process has been marred by irregularities that favor the ruling AIMIM. The party claims that forms for voter registration and corrections were distributed in bulk through AIMIM-run camps, bypassing the standard procedure. This, they argue, could lead to manipulation of the electoral rolls.
“Instead of following the prescribed guidelines, the authorities allowed bulk distribution of forms through political camps, which is a clear violation of the Election Commission's norms,” a BJP spokesperson said. The party has demanded a thorough investigation into the matter.
Family Voters Split Across Booths
The BJP also highlighted a significant administrative lapse: voters from the same family are often listed under different polling booths in the GHMC, CMC, and Malkajgiri municipal corporations. This makes it difficult for Booth Level Officers to conduct household verification, as they cannot cover multiple booths for a single family.
“This is a deliberate attempt to create confusion and disenfranchise voters,” the BJP alleged. The party has urged the Election Commission to consolidate family voters under one booth and ensure a seamless revision process.
Impact on the Revision Process
The Special Intensive Revision is a crucial exercise to update the electoral rolls, especially ahead of the upcoming municipal elections in Telangana. The BJP's allegations, if proven, could undermine the credibility of the revision process. The party has called for a re-verification of the rolls in the affected areas.
“We have submitted a memorandum to the Chief Electoral Officer detailing these lapses. We demand that the SIR be conducted afresh in these constituencies to ensure a fair and transparent electoral roll,” the BJP added.
AIMIM's Response
The AIMIM has denied the allegations, calling them baseless. “The BJP is trying to create a false narrative to discredit the revision process. The forms were distributed through proper channels, and there is no irregularity,” an AIMIM leader said. The party has accused the BJP of resorting to political mudslinging ahead of the elections.
The Election Commission has taken note of the BJP's complaint and has sought a report from the district election officers. Further action will be taken based on the findings.
