The YSRCP has alleged that certain issues, irregularities and practical difficulties are plaguing the implementation of the SIR of the electoral roll in Andhra Pradesh, and requested the ECI to immediately take corrective measures.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), YSRCP MLC and State General Secretary L Appireddy raised several issues, such as Booth Level Officers (BLOs) being interrupted, lack of adequate public awareness and others.
“I respectfully submit this representation bringing to your (CEO) kind notice certain serious issues, irregularities and practical difficulties being faced in the implementation of the ongoing SIR in Andhra Pradesh, which require immediate corrective measures in the interest of free, fair and transparent electoral roll revision,” he said.
According to Appireddy, BLOs, who are assigned to SIR work, are also burdened with their regular departmental duties.
While carrying out SIR work, BLOs are frequently being summoned by their respective departmental superiors to attend routine official work, affecting the SIR process and causing its delay, the YSRCP leader said.
Consequently, he called for necessary instructions to all departments to ensure that BLOs are allowed to devote adequate time exclusively to SIR activities during the revision period.
Though Enumeration Forms (EFs) are being distributed by BLOs in their respective areas, the MLC noted that in many places they are “not being properly collected, verified and filed.”
Hence, he said it is causing confusion regarding the status of applications.
Claiming that public awareness of SIR is inadequate, Appireddy said many electors are not aware of the purpose, procedure and timelines of the exercise.
Therefore, extensive awareness campaigns through mike announcements, local publicity and other communication methods may kindly be undertaken by the poll body, he noted.
