Bengaluru – Karnataka’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) V. Anbu Kumar on Wednesday rejected the Bharatiya Janata Party’s and Janata Dal (Secular)’s accusations that the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls was being carried out as a ‘mass SIR’ operation. He affirmed that the exercise is proceeding with full transparency and strictly in line with the Election Commission of India (ECI) regulations and existing law.

Background and Procedure

SIR is a nationwide initiative aimed at updating voter lists before elections to eliminate duplicates, errors, and fraudulent entries. The ECI has laid down comprehensive guidelines, mandating that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) visit every household and hand out enumeration forms personally. In Karnataka, all District Election Officers (DEOs) have been instructed to ensure BLOs receive the logistical support needed for door‑to‑door distribution.

Addressing the Allegations

CEO Kumar emphasized that every complaint from political parties and the public has been logged and examined. So far, 35 BLOs have received show‑cause notices for alleged lapses, and their explanations are being scrutinised. District Election Officers have compiled reports on each grievance and forwarded them to the ECI for further action.

‘Mass SIR’ Myth Debunked

He clarified that isolated instances where voters collect forms from a common location do not constitute a violation of ECI directives. After receiving fresh complaints from July 1, BLOs were again instructed to adhere strictly to the door‑to‑door model. The CEO stressed that the term ‘mass SIR’ is a mischaracterisation of the systematic, individual‑focused approach being employed.

Form Distribution Status

More than 11 crore enumeration forms have been printed within nine days and supplied to BLOs on schedule. No significant issues—such as shortages, printing defects, or delivery to wrong electors—have been reported, underscoring the operational transparency of the rollout.

Role of Booth Level Agents (BLAs)

While ECI guidelines assign the primary distribution and collection of forms to BLOs, recognised political parties may appoint Booth Level Agents (BLAs) to gather filled forms. Each BLA can collect a maximum of 50 forms per day, and these must be verified by the corresponding BLO before processing. Political parties have been briefed on this provision to streamline form collection.

Looking Ahead

Kumar concluded that continuous monitoring will ensure any irregularities are promptly addressed. Maintaining an accurate voter list is fundamental to India’s democratic fabric, and Karnataka’s administration remains committed to executing the SIR under the strictest ECI standards, thereby reinforcing public confidence ahead of upcoming polls.