Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president B.K. Hariprasad has defended the practice of political party workers assisting people in filling Special Intensive Revision (SIR) enumeration forms, stating that there is nothing improper about helping citizens who are unable to complete the forms on their own.
Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru after the KPCC general body meeting on Tuesday, Hariprasad said the Election Commission of India (ECI) has not prohibited such assistance. He noted that enumeration forms are currently being filled at community halls, schools, temples, and mosques, where facilitation and help desks have also been established.
Hariprasad Says Assistance Is Allowed
According to Hariprasad, helping citizens complete enumeration forms is a public service, particularly for those who may struggle with the process due to age, literacy, or other difficulties.
“Enumeration forms are being filled in community halls, schools, mandirs and masjids. The Election Commission of India does not bar it. It has set up facilitation desks and help desks. It is our responsibility to help people who cannot fill the forms. Political parties are helping them. There is nothing wrong in it,” Hariprasad said.
Election Commission’s Enumeration Drive
The ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) involves updating electoral records through enumeration forms. The Election Commission has established facilitation centres to help eligible voters complete the documentation required for the revision process.
The exercise aims to ensure electoral rolls remain updated and accurate. Political parties have also been actively assisting voters during the process, with the Congress maintaining that such support is permitted under existing guidelines.
Background
The remarks come amid political discussions over the role of party workers in assisting voters during the enumeration exercise. While concerns have been raised by some quarters regarding political involvement, the Congress leadership maintains that providing assistance to those unable to fill out the forms is consistent with the Election Commission’s facilitation efforts.
The Election Commission continues to oversee the SIR process through designated help desks and facilitation centres across the state.
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