In a significant move to ensure the integrity of the democratic process, the election authorities in Uttar Pradesh have initiated a comprehensive verification drive targeting the state's electoral rolls. As part of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) campaign, more than 1.69 crore voters across the state have been served official notices. This initiative is designed to scrutinize and update the voter list, making it accurate, transparent, and fully up-to-date in preparation for the forthcoming elections.
Massive Outreach by Booth Level Officers
Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Uttar Pradesh, Navdeep Rinwa, has provided detailed insights into the progress of this ambitious campaign. He revealed that out of the total notices issued, an impressive figure of over 79 lakh has already been delivered directly to voters by Booth Level Officers (BLOs). These grassroots-level officials are playing a crucial role in ensuring that the communication reaches the intended recipients without delay.
Hearings and Document Verification Underway
The revision process is not merely about issuing notices; it involves a structured mechanism for verification. So far, nearly 22 lakh hearings have been successfully completed. During these hearings, voters have been actively participating by submitting relevant documents to confirm their eligibility. This step is vital to address any discrepancies and maintain the sanctity of the electoral roll.
Targeted Groups for Revision
The notices have been strategically directed at two major categories of voters. The first group comprises 1.04 crore voters whose entries could not be accurately mapped during the last special revision conducted back in 2003. The second group includes 2.22 crore voters who have been flagged due to logical inconsistencies in their voter data. These discrepancies might involve mismatches in personal details such as age, address, or other identifying information.
Documentation Requirements Based on Birth Dates
Affected voters are required to provide valid documents that substantiate their date and/or place of birth. The specific documentation needed varies depending on the voter's birth period:
- For voters born before July 1, 1987, standard birth proofs are typically sufficient.
- Those born between July 1, 1987, and December 2, 2004, may need to submit additional or specific forms of identification.
- Voters born after December 2, 2004, might face more stringent requirements, including in some cases, the submission of their parents' birth documents to establish lineage and eligibility.
Ensuring Fairness Through Hearings
CEO Navdeep Rinwa has emphasised that the revision process is designed to be inclusive and fair. It incorporates provisions for in-person hearings or representation by authorised individuals. This ensures that every voter, regardless of their circumstances, has an equitable opportunity to respond to the notices and rectify any issues in their voter registration.
Authorised Representatives for Document Submission
To facilitate the process, the election commission has authorised 12 categories of relatives to submit necessary documents on behalf of the concerned voter. This flexibility is intended to assist those who might be unable to attend hearings in person due to various reasons, thereby enhancing accessibility and participation in the electoral roll cleanup.
The Special Intensive Revision in Uttar Pradesh represents a proactive step towards strengthening the electoral framework. By addressing data inaccuracies and ensuring that every eligible voter is correctly listed, the authorities aim to foster greater trust and engagement in the democratic process. As the hearings continue and more documents are verified, the state moves closer to having a robust and reliable voter list for the upcoming elections.
