Voters in Kodagu, Bengaluru claim enumeration forms not delivered despite 100% distribution claim

BENGALURU: Voters in parts of Kodagu and Bengaluru have reported that voter enumeration forms did not reach their households, contradicting the district administration's claim of 100% distribution. The discrepancy has raised questions about the accuracy of the electoral roll update process in the state.

Residents in several localities said they were unaware of the enumeration drive until neighbours or local media informed them. Many said they had not received the forms, which are meant to collect updated details of voters ahead of the revision cycle.

Claims vs ground reality

The district administration had earlier stated that enumeration forms had been distributed to all households in Kodagu. A similar claim was made for parts of Bengaluru, where the exercise was carried out in phases. However, multiple residents told The Hindu that no forms were left at their doorsteps.

In Kodagu, a district known for its dispersed settlements and hilly terrain, the challenge of reaching every household is significant. Residents in remote villages said they had not seen any enumeration officials in their areas during the designated period.

In Bengaluru, the issue appears more urban. Apartment dwellers in several wards said forms were not slipped under doors or handed to security staff. Some said they only learned about the forms after the distribution window had closed.

What the forms are for

The enumeration forms are part of the electoral roll revision exercise, which allows voters to correct names, addresses, and other details. They are also used to include new voters and delete duplicate entries. The forms are meant to be collected after a set period, but if they never reach the voter, the entire purpose is defeated.

Election officials in the past have said that the forms are a crucial step in ensuring accurate voter lists. However, the gap between the official claim and on-ground experience has now become a point of contention.

No official response yet

Officials have not yet responded to the specific complaints raised by residents. The Hindu reached out to the offices concerned, but no clarification was available at the time of writing. It remains unclear whether the forms were distributed in some areas and missed others, or if the claims of 100% coverage were based on incomplete data.

Some residents have said they will approach the election commission directly if the issue is not resolved. Others are unsure how to obtain the forms now that the initial distribution window has passed.

What happens next

The electoral roll revision process typically has a window for claims and objections, which may still be open. Voters who did not receive the forms can approach the concerned booth-level officer or the election commission's helpline for assistance. Officials have not yet confirmed whether a re-distribution will be undertaken.

The coming weeks will show whether the administration addresses the gap or sticks to its 100% distribution claim. For now, voters in affected areas are left waiting for clarity.