The Karnataka State Election Commission has directed Booth Level Officers (BLOs) to conduct door-to-door enumeration as part of a special intensive revision of electoral rolls. The order comes amid allegations by the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular) that there has been mass enrolment of Bangladeshi immigrants in the state's voter lists.
Opposition Raises Concerns Over 'Mass Enrolment'
Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, R Ashoka, claimed that there are 20 lakh Bangladeshis in Karnataka. He alleged that the Congress government is building a special highway for them, implying that the ruling party is facilitating illegal immigration to boost its voter base. Ashoka's remarks have sparked a political row, with the Congress dismissing the claims as baseless and politically motivated.
State Poll Body's Directive
In response to the controversy, the State Election Commission chief has instructed BLOs to carry out a thorough door-to-door enumeration to verify the accuracy of electoral rolls. The exercise aims to identify and remove any duplicate or fraudulent entries, ensuring that only eligible voters are included. The commission has emphasized that the process will be conducted transparently and in accordance with existing guidelines.
Background of the Issue
The demand for a special revision of electoral rolls has been a recurring issue in Karnataka, with opposition parties frequently alleging that illegal immigrants are being enrolled to influence election outcomes. The Congress government, however, has maintained that the electoral rolls are updated regularly and that there is no evidence of large-scale fraudulent enrolment. The current directive by the election commission is seen as a step to address these concerns and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
Impact on Political Landscape
The controversy over Bangladeshi immigrants and electoral roll manipulation is expected to intensify political rhetoric ahead of the upcoming local body elections. The BJP and JD(S) have vowed to raise the issue at every forum, while the Congress has accused them of spreading fear and division. The door-to-door enumeration exercise may provide clarity on the actual extent of any irregularities, but it is also likely to become a flashpoint in the state's charged political environment.
