Kerala’s Democracy Drive: Parties, People Unite for Error-Free Voter Lists |

Updated: January 25, 2026 12:32

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Kerala’s Chief Electoral Officer Dr. Rathan U. Kelkar emphasized the demand for an error-free voter list amid the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR). With nearly 19.5 lakh hearing notices issued, parties and citizens are actively supporting the process. The Election Commission has extended deadlines, aiming for transparent and accurate rolls.

Key Highlights

Public Demand: Citizens, political parties, and media are united in seeking a defect-free electoral roll.
Special Intensive Revision (SIR): Kerala is undergoing a large-scale voter list verification, considered more cumbersome but necessary than routine revisions.
Hearing Notices: Around 19.5 lakh voters out of 2.54 crore in draft rolls received notices for verification.
Deadline Extension: The Election Commission extended the claims and objections period to January 30, 2026, with the final list due on February 21.
Active Participation: Booth Level Agents and party representatives are assisting households in correcting errors.

The Drive for Accuracy

Following allegations of irregularities in electoral rolls after the Lok Sabha elections, Kerala’s Chief Electoral Officer Dr. Rathan U. Kelkar stressed the importance of ensuring error-free voter lists. He acknowledged that while the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is more demanding than annual updates, it is essential to restore public trust in the electoral process.

Party and Public Involvement

Political parties across the spectrum have thrown their weight behind the initiative. Booth Level Agents are visiting homes to help voters correct discrepancies, ensuring that the process is inclusive and participatory. Kelkar noted that minor errors in enumeration forms can often be rectified without requiring voters to appear before officials, reducing the burden on citizens.

Extended Timeline

The Election Commission of India (ECI) extended the deadline for filing claims and objections to January 30, 2026, following requests from Kerala’s CEO and guidance from the Supreme Court. The final electoral roll will be published on February 21, 2026, ahead of upcoming state and national elections.

Outlook

The revision exercise is expected to strengthen confidence in Kerala’s democratic processes. By eliminating duplicate entries and correcting inaccuracies, the state aims to set a benchmark for transparent and reliable electoral rolls. As Kelkar put it, the effort may be cumbersome, but it is vital for ensuring that every eligible citizen’s vote counts.

Sources: Deccan Herald, Hindustan Times, The Hindu, Election Commission of India notifications

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