The Citizens’ Vote Vigilance Committee in Karnataka has petitioned the Election Commission to extend the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) by at least six months, citing overwhelming workload on Booth Level Officers (BLOs). The group also argues that the current annual allowance of ₹12,000 is insufficient for the added responsibilities.

Key Takeaways

  • Citizen group requests a six‑month extension of Karnataka's SIR.
  • BLOs face excessive workload due to inadequate training and planning.
  • Demand for a higher allowance beyond the existing ₹12,000.

The Citizens’ Vote Vigilance Committee, formed to support voters and Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during the enumeration phase, has formally asked the Election Commission of India to prolong the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) by at least six months. The committee argues that the current timeline places undue pressure on field officials, leading to frequent confrontations with the public.

Background: What Is SIR?

Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a time‑critical phase in Indian elections designed to cleanse voter rolls and incorporate the latest demographic data. Typically, it requires BLOs to conduct door‑to‑door verification within a narrow window, demanding rapid data collection and validation. In Karnataka, the SIR commenced in mid‑2026, but reports from across the state indicate that insufficient preparation and training have hampered its smooth execution.

Burden on Booth Level Officers

According to the committee, BLOs have been operating without proper training modules, clear operational guidelines, or adequate logistical support. Consequently, they often encounter heated disputes with citizens attempting to verify their details. The rapid pace and volume of work have escalated stress levels and increased the risk of errors, undermining the integrity of the electoral roll.

Financial and Moral Demands

The committee holds the Election Commission “morally responsible” for the situation, asserting that the existing annual allowance of ₹12,000 does not reflect the expanded duties and risks shouldered by BLOs. It therefore seeks a special allowance that compensates for the additional workload, arguing that fair remuneration is essential for maintaining morale and public trust.

Implications of an Extension

Granting a six‑month extension could provide the necessary breathing room to rectify training gaps, streamline verification processes, and reduce public confrontations. Conversely, a refusal may exacerbate dissatisfaction among field officers and raise doubts about the credibility of Karnataka’s electoral outcomes. The decision will be pivotal for the state’s democratic health and the broader perception of India’s electoral machinery.