Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of Kerala has announced steps to aid eligible voters facing challenges due to the recent voter list revision. He introduced a permanent nativity card to simplify proof of residence and identity in the state. As part of the 2025 intensive revision of electoral rolls, the Election Commission removed over 24 lakh people from the draft list. Additionally, around 19 lakh voters included in the draft will need to provide documents for verification to secure their voting rights.
Vijayan highlighted the burden on citizens to establish their voting rights, especially for individuals aged 18 to 40 who must link their records to the 2002 electoral roll. Many individuals previously on voter lists, including those who voted in recent elections, are now excluded. The Chief Minister pointed out alarming voter absences in certain polling stations, like polling station 138 in Sreevaraham where information for a significant number of registered voters was missing. Similar situations have been noted in other parts of the state.
To ensure no eligible voter is left out, the government plans to set up help desks at village offices and other locations. Each desk will have two officials to assist citizens, with special teams visiting remote areas to identify eligible voters. Anganwadi workers, ASHA staff, and Kudumbashree members will be mobilized as needed. The government also approved issuing a permanent nativity card to replace the existing certificate, simplifying access to government services and administrative purposes.
Vijayan emphasized that these initiatives aim to protect citizens’ right to vote and simplify proof of residence and identity, promoting democratic participation in Kerala.
