Belagavi Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan has launched a probe into allegations that schoolchildren were engaged in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The alleged incident occurred on Tuesday at the Government Kannada Higher Primary School in Maradimutt village, Gokak taluk, where Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are accused of involving students in the official enumeration process.
Reports indicate that BLOs summoned villagers to the school premises to facilitate the distribution and collection of Enumeration Forms. Videos circulating on social media purportedly show schoolchildren actively assisting in this exercise, prompting concerns within the district administration regarding student involvement in election-related activities.
Responding swiftly, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan issued a notice to the Gokak Tahsildar, demanding an explanation for the alleged lapse. Roshan emphasized that strict action would follow if any violation of official guidelines or procedures is confirmed during the ongoing enquiry. Preliminary information suggests schoolchildren were reportedly used to fill out forms and affix photographs.
This development adds to an existing political controversy surrounding the SIR of electoral rolls across Karnataka. Opposition parties have already voiced criticism over the implementation of the exercise. BJP MLC C.T. Ravi alleged that the state government has provided oral instructions to officials, subverting the SIR process. He claimed that BJP voters are being denied Enumeration Forms, while Congress voters are being retained, and the SIR is being conducted "en masse in mosques." Ravi also asserted that individuals not born locally are being issued birth certificates, promising to detail the "illegality" of the SIR process.
Further, former Deputy Chief Minister and BJP MP Govind Karajol, speaking to media in Chitradurga, stated that Congress leaders fear the SIR due to concerns over Rahul Gandhi's dual citizenship and the potential cancellation of his Parliament membership. He alleged this fear drives Congress's opposition to the SIR process.
Officials are yet to release a detailed statement as the investigation continues.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Mangalorean News