Kerala voter list revision: Who will be affected and what processes are involved?

Thiruvananthapuram: The intensive revision of the voter list in Bihar (Special Intensive Revision – SIR) is a looming concern for many. On Friday, Chief Electoral Officer Dr Rathan U Kelkar announced that SIR would be conducted in Kerala as well, prompting political parties to express concern. However, Kelkar reassured that there is no need for worry and a 100 per cent correct voter list will be published.

"All questions and concerns will be addressed by SIR," Kelkar said. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) verify information by visiting households directly. "No one can fabricate information," he added. The voter lists of 2002 and 2025 are being compared.

The current voter list from the last Lok Sabha election is in place. Why refer to 2002?

Documents were checked, and SIR was first conducted in 2002. Those in that list need to show records. Those enrolled after must submit one of 12 documents, which includes Aadhaar. Both existing and new voters must have their enumeration forms signed. Eligible individuals will not be left out. Ineligible individuals will be removed. Action will be taken against officials who make lapses. If incorrect information is submitted to remove a name, action will also be taken against the complainant. Hearings will be conducted if necessary.

Verification

When the SIR online application is completed and uploaded, it reaches the BLO’s mobile app. Once the BLO verifies and approves, it is sent to the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO). BLOs also visit homes to collect and verify documents. Applicants receive a confirmation message on their phones.

Will current votes be lost?

No. Everyone will submit the enumeration form. Documents of voters enrolled after 2002 will also be provided.

What if a voter is listed in two places?

One must be removed. Applications can be submitted to the BLO or ERO. There will be a mobile app. District-level call centre assistance (1950) is available. Voters can also request a transfer from a previous residence to a new one. With multi-level verification, double voting is not possible. Fraudulent votes can also be prevented."

What if  is Aadhaar is fake?

Other documents will be considered.

Inter-state voters

Voter information is collected centrally. SIR is conducted in all states. If a voter appears in more than one location, the system automatically checks for similarities in name, age, house name, and father’s name. CEOs coordinate to verify information.

For NRIs

Applications can be submitted online. BLOs visit homes to verify. In case of doubt, verification can be done via video or WhatsApp calls.

Draft lists

Draft lists will be published once the SIR schedule is finalised. Complaints can be submitted to BLOs or EROs. The collector is the first appellate authority, and the Chief Electoral Officer is the second.

Forms for adding or removing names

Form 6 for adding, Form 7 for removing, Form 8 for shifting.