Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Goa has sought detailed reports from the concerned authorities following a formal complaint submitted by Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) president Amit Patkar, who raised serious objections over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the State.
Patkar, in his complaint, alleged grave procedural lapses, lack of transparency and unconstitutional practices in the SIR process, stating that instead of strengthening democracy, the exercise was being conducted in a manner that raises doubts over its intent, fairness and legality.
According to the GPCC, the CEO’s move to call for reports vindicates the concerns raised by the party and indicates that the issues flagged are serious and merit scrutiny.
In his complaint, Patkar pointed out that the SIR process is being carried out without adequate public awareness, leading to confusion and fear among voters. He further alleged that arbitrary deletions and objections are being entertained without following due process prescribed under the Representation of the People Act and Election Commission of India guidelines.
The GPCC president also claimed that in several instances, Form 7 objections are being accepted from individuals who are neither from the same electoral part nor directly affected, which, he said, opens the door to large-scale misuse. He alleged that the lack of transparency, accountability and proper verification could result in the disenfranchisement of genuine voters.
Patkar maintained that such practices violate constitutional guarantees under Articles 14, 19 and 326, which ensure equality, fairness and universal adult franchise.
The Congress party has demanded an immediate review and correction of the ongoing SIR process, a halt to all unconstitutional and irregular practices, and the issuance of clear written guidelines to ensure transparency, due process and public participation. It has also insisted that no voter be deleted or objected to without strict adherence to law and proper hearing.
Warning that the party will remain vigilant, Patkar said the matter would be escalated to the Election Commission of India and other constitutional authorities if corrective steps are not taken promptly.
Stating that Goa’s democracy belongs to its people, the GPCC asserted that any attempt to manipulate electoral rolls or intimidate voters would be strongly opposed.
