Karnataka SIR: DK Shivakumar Seeks More Time For Voter Claims

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has written to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar seeking additional time for claims and objections under the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.

The request comes after the draft electoral roll was published on August 24. Shivakumar said the numbers emerging from the exercise require careful attention, particularly because a large number of voters have been placed in the ASDDO category.

More than 1.08 crore voters flagged

According to the figures cited by the Chief Minister, Karnataka has around 5.54 crore electors, of whom nearly 1.08 crore have been categorised as ASDDO. The category covers voters listed as Absent, Shifted, Dead, Duplicate and Others.

Shivakumar argued that some voters marked as absent could be genuine electors who were away from their homes when Booth Level Officers visited for enumeration. He also pointed to migrants and people who had shifted addresses as groups that could face difficulties during the process.

Around 43.8 lakh voters may receive notices

The Chief Minister also raised concerns about approximately 43.8 lakh electors who are expected to face verification over logical discrepancies or the absence of a link with the 2002 electoral roll.

He has asked that each affected voter be given at least three to four weeks to respond and submit supporting documents. Shivakumar said a short response period could create difficulties for working people, migrants and elderly voters who may need additional time to arrange records.

Request for more local verification

Shivakumar has also urged the Election Commission to ensure that Gram Sabhas in rural areas and Ward Committee meetings in urban areas are conducted with adequate publicity.

The aim, according to the Chief Ministers request, is to give voters a practical opportunity to check their names, understand the status of their records and raise objections where necessary.

More election officials sought

With a large number of claims and objections expected, the Chief Minister has requested an increase in the number of Electoral Registration Officers. He has also suggested adding more District Election Officers wherever required.

The additional manpower, he said, would help authorities handle applications efficiently and reduce the possibility of genuine voters being left out because of procedural errors.

Karnataka government offers support

The state government has indicated that it is ready to assist the Election Commission throughout the revision process. This includes using local administration for Gram Sabha and Ward Committee meetings, conducting voter awareness programmes and providing logistical support.

The broader concern raised by Shivakumar is that the electoral roll should remain accurate without unintentionally excluding eligible citizens. The Election Commission will now have to consider the request for additional time and the other measures proposed by the Karnataka government.