Kumaraswamy calls for scrapping of ongoing SIR
Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy has demanded that the Election Commission of India scrap the entire Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls conducted so far in the state. He urged the commission to appoint a competent officer from another state to oversee a fresh SIR exercise, alleging irregularities in the current process.
Allegations of manipulation
Speaking to reporters on July 5, 2026, Kumaraswamy claimed that the ongoing revision was fraught with errors and deliberate manipulation. He said, "The way the SIR has been conducted raises serious doubts about its fairness. Voters have been added or deleted arbitrarily, and the entire exercise needs to be scrapped." He emphasized that a fresh revision under an impartial officer from outside Karnataka would restore public confidence.
Demand for neutral oversight
Kumaraswamy specifically requested that the officer appointed for the fresh SIR should not have any prior association with Karnataka's electoral machinery. He argued that local officers might be influenced by political pressures. "Only a neutral officer from another state can ensure a clean and transparent revision," he added.
Political context
The demand comes ahead of the 2028 Karnataka assembly elections, with parties jockeying for an accurate voter list. The SIR, which began earlier this year, has been criticized by opposition parties for allegedly favoring the ruling party. Kumaraswamy's JD(S) has been vocal about discrepancies, citing instances of missing names and duplicate entries.
EC response awaited
The Election Commission has not yet responded to Kumaraswamy's demand. However, sources indicate that the commission may review the complaints before deciding on the next steps. The ongoing SIR is part of the EC's routine exercise to update electoral rolls, but political parties have often questioned its implementation in Karnataka.
