Election Commission Ramps Up Voter Roll Revision Across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh
The Election Commission of India has initiated a comprehensive Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, targeting Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and multiple other states ahead of a nationwide voter list clean-up. This strategic move aims to ensure the accuracy and inclusivity of voter registrations, with field-level preparations already in full swing. The exact schedule for the revision is slated to be announced in late March, providing a clear timeline for the electoral machinery.
Accelerated Preparations and Urban Challenges
Acting on directives from the Election Commission, Telangana Chief Electoral Officer C Sudharshan Reddy has expedited pre-revision mapping and training initiatives for district election officials. Mapping efforts in Telangana have already achieved a significant milestone, reaching 56% completion, with initial focus areas including Hyderabad and its neighboring districts.
Sudharshan Reddy highlighted the complexities of the exercise, particularly in urban regions where electors are often unavailable at their residences. "A lot of people are not available in cities," he noted, emphasizing that Booth-Level Officers (BLOs) have been instructed to conduct home visits on weekends to reach individuals who are inaccessible during weekdays. This proactive approach is crucial as the revision process is confined to a one-month window, with a potential one-week extension, making house identification a priority before the formal commencement.
While rural areas exhibit more stability in voter presence, BLOs are intensifying house-to-house campaigns in cities to prevent any omissions, ensuring that every eligible voter is accounted for in the updated rolls.
Comprehensive Training and Technological Integration
A detailed training program was recently conducted at the CEO's office in Hyderabad, involving 50 Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) from key districts such as Medchal Malkajgiri, Sangareddy, Rangareddy, and Hyderabad. The orientation covered essential aspects including:
- Statutory provisions and legal frameworks governing electoral rolls
- Timelines and procedural guidelines for handling claims and objections
- Effective utilization of technology to streamline the revision process
Sudharshan Reddy underscored the importance of enrolling all eligible citizens while rigorously removing ineligible entries in compliance with legal standards. Another round of training is planned for staff involved in the SIR, focusing on form submissions and procedural formats to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
Ensuring Operational Readiness
Officials have been directed to address any vacancies among BLOs and electoral staff ahead of the revision start date, ensuring a fully operational team. This preparatory phase is critical to the success of the SIR, as it lays the groundwork for a smooth and effective voter list update.
The Election Commission's efforts reflect a commitment to strengthening democratic processes by enhancing the integrity of electoral rolls, with Telangana and Andhra Pradesh at the forefront of this nationwide initiative.
