A city-wide voter awareness campaign was launched in Bengaluru on Thursday by the civil society coalition “My Vote, My Right” to educate citizens about the upcoming SIR process and the steps needed to safeguard their voting rights.

The three-day campaign began with members of the coalition paying tribute to Dr B R Ambedkar by garlanding his statue at Valluvarpuram, behind Mantri Mall. Around 22 volunteers are participating in the drive, which will cover several parts of the city, including Malleshwaram, Yeshwanthpur, Peenya, markets, bus stands, industrial areas and other public spaces.

Campaign focuses on voter preparedness

The awareness drive comes ahead of the implementation of the SIR process in Karnataka from June 20. Organisers said the initiative aims to help voters understand the procedures required to ensure their names remain on the electoral rolls.

Volunteers have been distributing pamphlets and interacting with residents, workers, street vendors and commuters. They are encouraging people to verify their voter record mapping status, contact their Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and keep relevant documents ready for verification if required.

Activist Aishwarya, associated with the campaign, said many voters remain unaware of the electoral roll mapping exercise that began in November 2025, linking voter records from 2002 and 2025.

Concerns raised over voter inclusion

Members of the coalition expressed concerns that voters whose records are not mapped may be required to submit additional documentation during the SIR process.

Advocate Vinay Srinivasa said the coalition has repeatedly urged authorities to create greater public awareness about the process. He claimed that vulnerable communities, including migrant workers, women, transgender persons and economically weaker sections, could face challenges if they are not adequately informed.

The coalition said its objective is not only to spread awareness but also to ensure that citizens understand how to verify their voter details and prepare the necessary documents.

Protecting the right to vote

Organisers said the campaign seeks to empower voters with information and ensure that every eligible citizen remains prepared as the SIR process begins across Karnataka.