Dead voters could fall through cracks in SIR process
The ongoing electoral roll revision process in India faces criticism for lacking safeguards against the inclusion of deceased voters. Critics argue that the current system, which allows family members or political agents to submit forms, is vulnerable to impersonation and fraud.
Why it matters
The integrity of electoral rolls is fundamental to democratic processes and public trust in elections.
The ongoing Special Intensive Revision of Electoral Rolls does not have any safeguards against inclusion of deceased persons, despite the oft heard allegations in the city about inclusion of dead voters on the rolls.
In the name of purifying the rolls, the Election Commission of India has enforced mapping of electors in the current rolls with the previous SIR rolls from 2002, and listed an array of anomalies against which notices will be served, but dead voters could slip through the cracks left wide open by the process.
As per the directions from the ECI, any adult member can fill up and sign the enumeration form on behalf of other family members, which gives ample scope for irregularities. The Booth Level Officers not paying house to house visits makes it more complicated, as the form can be returned filled and signed by anybody.
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