Kerala CM Criticizes Election Commission's Voter List Revision Plan

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday condemned the Election Commission of India's move to implement a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voters' list, calling it a 'direct challenge to the democratic process'. Vijayan urged the commission to reconsider its decision, asserting it undermines its credibility.

The Chief Minister pointed out that the revision relies on outdated voter rolls from 2002-2004 rather than the latest voter data. Citing the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, he argued that revisions should be based on current lists. Despite concerns expressed by the State Election Officer, the commission's insistence on proceeding with the SIR, especially with impending local elections, raises questions about its intent.

Vijayan also criticized the SIR process, suggesting it is an indirect attempt to implement a National Register of Citizens (NRC) and manipulate voter rolls in favor of the central ruling party. He highlighted the Supreme Court's pending consideration of Bihar's SIR validity, stressing that expanding the process reflects an effort to subvert democracy. As the second SIR phase unfolds in 12 states, including Kerala, Vijayan called for collective opposition to preserve democratic integrity.