In a significant move to purify the electoral rolls, the State Election Commission in Kerala has removed a staggering number of names from the voter list. The comprehensive verification drive has led to the elimination of over 2.4 lakh voters deemed ineligible or duplicate.
Massive Clean-Up of Electoral Database
The drive, which concluded recently, resulted in the deletion of 2,40,808 voters from the list across the state. This extensive exercise was undertaken to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the voter database, a cornerstone of free and fair elections. The process involved rigorous checks and cross-verification of data to identify entries that were invalid.
Among the notable names struck off the list is Rajaji Mathew Thomas, a former Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). Thomas, who represented the Kottayam constituency, served as an MLA from 2016 to 2021. His removal highlights the non-partisan and thorough nature of the verification process, which did not spare even former public representatives.
Reasons Behind the Voter Deletions
The elimination of such a large number of voters was not arbitrary. Officials cited several key reasons for the removal of names. A primary cause was the detection of duplicate entries, where the same individual was registered more than once, often in different locations. Other major reasons included the removal of names of voters who had passed away but whose records had not been updated.
Furthermore, the list was cleansed of individuals who had permanently shifted their residence out of a particular constituency or the state itself. The verification process leveraged technology and physical checks to identify these discrepancies, ensuring that the final roll reflects only genuine, eligible voters residing within the constituency boundaries.
Implications and the Path Forward
This large-scale purification of the voter list is a critical step towards enhancing the credibility of the electoral process in Kerala. An accurate roll prevents potential electoral malpractices and ensures that voting rights are exercised correctly. The State Election Commission has emphasized that this is a continuous process.
For citizens whose names have been inadvertently deleted or who have any objections, the commission has outlined a clear appeals process. Affected individuals can apply for inclusion through the proper channels by submitting the necessary documents to prove their eligibility and residence. The commission has urged all voters to proactively check their enrollment status online through the National Voters' Service Portal (NVSP) or via the voter helpline.
The removal of a high-profile figure like former MLA Rajaji Mathew Thomas underscores the message that the rules apply uniformly to all. It serves as a reminder for every citizen, including public figures, to regularly verify and update their voter registration details, especially after changing address or following major life events.
