A broad coalition of organisations and political parties in Karnataka on Thursday issued a ‘Karnataka Declaration’ opposing the proposed Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
The group described the exercise as a serious threat to democratic participation and warned of statewide protests if it proceeds without safeguards.
Convention held at Freedom Park
The declaration was adopted during an anti-SIR convention at Freedom Park in Bengaluru.
The gathering was attended by members of civil society groups, people’s movements and opposition parties.
Participants alleged the revision process could be misused to remove legitimate voters under the pretext of cleaning electoral rolls.
Concerns over voter disenfranchisement
The convention claimed that similar exercises in other states had raised concerns over voter exclusion and electoral fairness.
Leaders said Karnataka must ensure that no eligible citizen loses the right to vote because of procedural issues, lack of documentation or rushed timelines.
They demanded that any such revision should be paused until court proceedings and broader reviews are completed.
Six-point demand placed before government
The declaration urged the Government of Karnataka to adopt measures to protect voters’ rights.
These reportedly include extending the revision period, increasing the appeal window, opening voter assistance centres and ensuring quick issuance of identity and residence certificates.
The coalition also called for public review of draft voter lists through gram sabhas and ward sabhas before finalisation.
Political debate likely to grow
The issue is expected to trigger wider political debate in Karnataka as electoral reforms and voter access remain sensitive public concerns.
Election authorities have not officially responded to the declaration.