Kerala CM Condemns Election Commission's Voter List Revision

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday voiced strong opposition to the Election Commission of India's decision to implement a Special Intensive Revision of the voter list, labeling it a serious threat to democratic integrity.

Vijayan's statement expressed concern that this initiative might erode public confidence in the electoral system. He criticized the Commission's plan to rely on voter data from 2002-2004, which conflicts with the Representation of the People Act of 1950 and the Registration of Electors Rules of 1960. These laws mandate the use of current voter lists for any updates.

The Chief Minister highlighted the impracticality of a revision, especially as Kerala prepares for local body elections. He warned that proceeding with the SIR could signal ulterior motives, a suspicion compounded by the Election Commission's announcement of revisions in multiple states by early next year.