Bengaluru, May 25 : D. K. Shivakumar on Sunday voiced concern over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, claiming that economically weaker sections could face disenfranchisement if they fail to complete documentation formalities.
Addressing reporters in Bengaluru, the Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister said many poor and migrant voters were still unaware of the verification process and could lose access to their voting rights due to procedural difficulties.
He alleged that large numbers of names were being removed from voter lists in several states and stressed that the issue should not be viewed through a political lens. According to Shivakumar, every eligible citizen irrespective of party affiliation must be assisted in completing the required formalities.
The Karnataka Congress president also cautioned that exclusion from electoral rolls could eventually affect access to welfare schemes and government benefits. He said vulnerable communities depend heavily on public welfare support and any disruption in identification records could create uncertainty over entitlements.
Referring to the Congress government’s five guarantee schemes in Karnataka, Shivakumar highlighted programmes such as Gruha Jyothi, Gruha Lakshmi, Anna Bhagya, Yuva Nidhi and Shakti, saying these initiatives directly benefit lakhs of families across the state.
He urged authorities to ensure that all required documents are made easily accessible to citizens and said the government must guarantee that no eligible voter is left out of the democratic process.
Shivakumar further pointed out that elderly citizens and migrant labourers were particularly vulnerable because many frequently move between cities and states for employment, making it difficult for them to stay updated with electoral procedures.
The Deputy Chief Minister said political parties would also step up awareness campaigns through booth-level workers to help citizens safeguard their franchise.
Responding to questions regarding speculation over a Cabinet reshuffle and reported dissatisfaction among legislators ahead of a Congress meeting, Shivakumar dismissed the reports and said there was no confusion within the party.