Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution, and Consumer Affairs, Pralhad Joshi, has accused the Karnataka government of direct interference in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Ramanagara district. Joshi demanded an immediate, impartial investigation into the alleged irregularities, claiming that the SIR process was marred by large-scale irregularities and described it as a betrayal of democratic principles.
Joshi alleged that the state government attempted to manipulate the electoral rolls for political gain, stating that the exercise was part of a systematic conspiracy. He criticized the Congress government in Karnataka for interfering in what he described as an independent constitutional process and exerting pressure on the local administration.
The Union Minister further claimed that the Special Intensive Revision was carried out in violation of the Election Commission’s guidelines and procedures by misusing Booth Level Officers (BLOs). Joshi called for a comprehensive inquiry to determine whose interests were being served by the alleged irregularities, emphasizing the need for a fair and immediate investigation into the matter.
Joshi’s remarks come amidst a political controversy over the SIR exercise in Ramanagara, with the Election Commission already seeking a report from the district administration regarding the alleged violation of guidelines during the electoral roll revision process. The Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer has also sought a report from the Ramanagara Deputy Commissioner regarding the conduct of the SIR of the electoral rolls by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and the alleged violation of Election Commission guidelines.
