Karnataka Parties Flag Tight SIR Deadlines as Voters Scramble to Comply

The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Karnataka has raised concerns among political parties and voters over the short time available between the issuance of notices and scheduled hearings. Leaders and workers from the Congress, BJP and JD(S) have argued that the limited gap could make it difficult to identify affected voters, inform them in time and assist those who are currently outside Karnataka. The issue has become particularly significant for voters whose names have been flagged for “no mapping.”

One such case involves a north Bengaluru voter, identified as Rashmi, whose name was flagged under the “no mapping” category. She said she had completed the required mapping and provided the available details, but subsequently received a notice regarding the issue. Her father also received a call from the Booth Level Officer informing him that his name had been similarly flagged. The family has questioned why they were required to appear for a hearing despite having completed the mapping process.

The family’s situation has become more complicated because both Rashmi and her father are currently in Delhi due to a medical emergency. Their hearing has been scheduled for September 8, leaving them with limited time to make arrangements to return to Bengaluru. They now face the prospect of travelling back at short notice to present their case, raising concerns about the difficulties that voters outside the State may face during the revision exercise.

Also Read: Tripura’s West District To Enter SIR Process From September 5 For Voter Roll Revision

Political parties have pointed to similar challenges that emerged during electoral roll revision exercises elsewhere, including West Bengal, where political leaders reportedly helped voters travel by arranging flight tickets. In Karnataka, parties are questioning how voters who are away from the State for work, education, medical treatment or other reasons can be informed and brought before authorities within a short period. The concern is that voters may struggle to respond to notices despite having legitimate reasons for being away.

The Congress, BJP and JD(S) have argued that the process requires adequate communication and sufficient time for affected voters to respond. Booth Level Officers are playing a key role in identifying voters and issuing notices as part of the revision, while voters are expected to provide relevant information or appear for hearings where required. Political representatives have raised concerns that insufficient time could particularly affect families that have migrated temporarily or are unable to travel immediately.

The SIR exercise is intended to update and verify electoral rolls and ensure that eligible voters are correctly included. However, the concerns being raised in Karnataka underline the practical difficulties involved in reaching voters and giving them a meaningful opportunity to respond to notices. As hearings begin, political parties and affected voters are likely to closely watch how election officials handle cases involving people who are outside the State or unable to appear at short notice.

Also Read: Maharashtra SIR: Over 2.07 Crore Voters Face Possible Exclusion, Poll Body Data Shows