Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala's Chief Electoral Officer, Rathan Kelkar, has reported significant progress in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process of electoral rolls across the state. As of today, over one crore SIR enumeration forms have been distributed to voters by dedicated Booth Level Officers (BLOs). Kelkar commended the BLOs for their exceptional efforts in reaching a large segment of the population within a short period.

The SIR initiative, which commenced on November 4, aims to ensure accurate and up-to-date electoral rolls through door-to-door enumeration and digital validation. The Election Commission of India has set a deadline of one month for the completion of the SIR process, but Kerala aims to wrap it up within 20 days. The enumeration stage is scheduled to continue until December 4, followed by the release of draft electoral rolls on December 9 and the final rolls on February 7.

According to Kelkar, the remaining enumeration forms will be distributed over the next four to five days, with a submission deadline of November 25. BLOs are prepared to assist citizens who need help with filling out the forms. The CEO has also expressed satisfaction with the positive feedback received regarding online submissions, encouraging voters, especially those unable to submit in person, to utilize this convenient option.

The SIR process requires electors listed in the 2025 roll to fill in their details, sign, and return the form to the BLO. Those currently out of station can complete the process online. Officials have clarified that no verification documents are required at this stage; even a signed form will make an elector eligible for inclusion in the draft voters' list. Verification by Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) will begin after the publication of the draft rolls on December 9.

Kelkar has emphasized that eligible voters will not be removed from the electoral roll during the SIR process. He has also instructed BLOs to visit voters during night hours to accommodate their convenience.

In Thrissur, the District Election Office has launched an innovative voter awareness initiative in collaboration with online food delivery partners. Pamphlets providing guidance on filling the enumeration form will now be delivered along with every food order, aiming to inform and engage urban voters about the SIR process.

Despite the ongoing preparations for the local self-government elections, Kelkar has clarified that the SIR exercise will proceed without disruption. To avoid any operational overlap, BLOs have not been assigned any duties linked with the local body elections, and officials engaged with the conduct of the local body elections will not be entrusted with BLO duties during the ongoing SIR.

Kelkar has urged citizens to make effective use of the Election Commission of India's online platforms for checking and updating their voter information. The Chief Electoral Office has directed all district officials to maintain momentum in the enumeration drive while ensuring accuracy and inclusivity. Dr Rathan U Kelkar hopes that the first phase of the exercise, including the distribution and collection of enumeration forms, will be completed by November 25.