MK Stalin Warns: Minor Errors in Electoral Roll Forms Could Lead to Voter Disenfranchisement

Chennai:

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK president MK Stalin has warned citizens to exercise extreme caution when completing their Summary Revision of Electoral Roll forms, emphasizing that minor errors could result in voter list exclusion.

During a DMK District Secretaries' meeting in Chennai, attended by constituency observers, MLAs, and MPs, Stalin examined the practical challenges facing the ongoing SIR initiative.

Stalin voiced his concern that many citizens remain uninformed about the process. He noted that even Booth Level Officers (BLOs) seem to be experiencing confusion regarding the procedures.

The DMK leader criticized the BJP government, claiming they are developing various strategies to prevent DMK from securing another term in office.

"The BJP is preparing to misuse the Enforcement Directorate, Income Tax Department and Election Commission against our party. We welcome their challenge - we stand ready to confront them. This is our territory," Stalin declared confidently.

Stalin clarified that while the DMK does not oppose the SIR process in principle, he cautioned that implementing it hastily could create confusion and potentially disenfranchise legitimate voters.

"A comprehensive and accurate voters' list forms the foundation of fair elections. Our opposition isn't to the revision itself, but rather to conducting it hurriedly, particularly when elections are only months away," he further explained.

Highlighting ambiguities in the enumeration form, Stalin mentioned that even well-educated individuals might find it confusing.

"The ECI's form requests a relative's name - but fails to specify which relative. Should it be father, mother, sibling, spouse? There's significant ambiguity. A simple mistake could result in removal from the electoral roll. The situation is genuinely concerning," Stalin remarked.

Meanwhile, AIADMK General Secretary and Opposition Leader Edappadi K Palaniswami supported the SIR process, describing it as essential for eliminating fraudulent and duplicate voter entries.

"DMK opposes the SIR because they secured local body election victories through fraudulent votes. During elections, even deceased individuals seemingly resurrect to cast ballots. The SIR exercise is vital for removing fake voters while ensuring eligible citizens are included," Palaniswami stated.