BJP flags shortcomings in SIR process, seeks corrective measures

The BJP on Tuesday submitted a memorandum to the Andhra Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), urging immediate corrective measures to address alleged shortcomings in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and ensure a transparent and efficient voter list revision process.

In the representation, BJP State general secretary N. Ramesh Naidu said while the objective was to prepare an accurate and comprehensive electoral roll, several operational issues at the field level were affecting its implementation and causing inconvenience to the voters.

The BJP leader alleged that many polling stations lacked help desks to guide voters on enrolment procedures, required documents and application forms, making the process particularly difficult for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, first-time voters and rural residents.

He also sought an extension of the voter data collection deadline, citing delays in the distribution of forms, inadequate public awareness and limited availability of election staff.

The BJP leader further claimed that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) were unavailable at several polling stations during notified hours because of heavy workloads, preventing voters from obtaining forms, submitting applications and seeking clarifications. It also pointed to an alleged shortage of voter enrolment forms and urged the Election Commission to ensure adequate supplies at all polling stations.

He also sought better coordination between election authorities and recognised political parties through regular communication on guidelines, schedules and procedural changes.

The BJP leader requested the CEO to establish help desks, ensure availability of BLOs, provide sufficient application forms, extend enrolment deadline and take additional steps to ensure the SIR was conducted in a transparent, impartial and credible manner.