Deoghar/Dumka: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India Gyanesh Kumar on Monday underscored that a precise and error-free voter list is the strongest foundation of democracy, asserting that the inclusion of even a single non-citizen in the electoral roll violates constitutional principles.
Addressing the media after interactions with Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in Jharkhand’s Deoghar and Dumka districts, the CEC said the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has already begun in 12 states and will be rolled out nationwide in the coming days to protect the integrity of the democratic process.
He emphasised that the “festival of democracy,” the general elections, can only be meaningfully celebrated when the voter list is completely accurate.
During his two-day visit to the two districts, Gyanesh Kumar held extensive discussions with BLOs on electoral procedures, voter roll purification, and mechanisms to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.
Explaining the SIR process, the CEC said it is simple, transparent, and offers citizens sufficient opportunities to submit claims and objections even after the draft voter list is published at the district level. He added that an additional month is provided for inspection and appeals for those unable to participate earlier.
The CEC also stated that the SIR process will be implemented in Jharkhand in the future.
Addressing a BLO interaction programme at Shri Shri Mohananand Vidyalaya in Tapovan, Deoghar, he described Booth Level Officers as the unsung heroes of democracy, calling them the backbone of the electoral system.
Reaffirming the Election Commission’s commitment, he said the aim is to ensure that no eligible Indian citizen is excluded from the electoral rolls.
Highlighting past challenges, Gyanesh Kumar noted that BLOs previously lacked official identity cards, often leading to mistrust during door-to-door verification. He said the Election Commission of India has now issued official ID cards to BLOs to resolve this issue.
Reviewing electoral preparedness in Jharkhand, the CEC expressed confidence that whenever the intensive revision programme is undertaken in the state, it will be conducted with complete transparency and fairness.
With inputs from IANS