In a bid to ensure better transparency in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, a Biju Janata Dal (BJD) delegation met with Odisha’s Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) on Saturday to submit a three-point memorandum.
The regional party’s primary demand focuses on the immediate introduction of an SMS acknowledgement system for electors right after their enumeration forms are digitized via the Booth Level Officer (BLO) App.
BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty highlighted that this automated confirmation would allow voters to verify that their applications have been successfully received and processed, significantly boosting public confidence in the revision system.
“The BJD requested that an SMS acknowledgement be sent to electors immediately after the digitisation of enumeration forms through the BLO App. Such an acknowledgement would enable electors to verify that their forms have been successfully received and digitised, thereby enhancing transparency and public confidence in the revision process,” said Mohanty.
Alongside the digital alerts, the opposition party proposed expanding the list of acceptable identification, urging the CEO to recognize PAN cards, driving licenses, and ration cards as valid indicative documents during the claims and objections phase to streamline voter credential verification and encourage higher participation.
Finally, to foster seamless communication and swift problem-solving, the BJD recommended setting up dedicated WhatsApp groups connecting election officials with representatives of recognized political parties, a move they argue will collectively enhance voter convenience and deliver a more inclusive, efficient electoral roll update.
“These measures would strengthen transparency, improve voter convenience and contribute to a more efficient and inclusive electoral roll revision exercise,” the BJD said in a statement.
