Karnataka CEO directs BLOs to strictly follow guidelines for door-to-door SIR exercise after complaints

Published 3 July 2026 · india

A day after allegations of protocol violations during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls surfaced from different parts of Karnataka, Chief Electoral

A day after allegations of protocol violations during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls surfaced from different parts of Karnataka, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) V. Anbu Kumar directed all District Election Officers (DEOs) to ensure that Booth Level Officers (BLOs) strictly adhere to the guidelines laid down by the Election Commission of India (ECI), and undertake house-to-house distribution of enumeration forms. In a communication addressed to all DEOs on July 3, Deputy Commissioners, and election officials, Mr. Kumar said complaints had been received alleging that some BLOs were distributing enumeration forms from their offices instead of visiting residence of voters, as mandated under the SIR guidelines.

ECI’s directions Referring to the ECI’s directions and schedule under which the SIR exercise commenced on June 30, the CEO instructed officials to issue necessary directions to all BLOs to carry out door-to-door distribution of enumeration forms, and strictly comply with all guidelines issued by the Commission. He told officials to publicise the availability of Voter Facilitation Centres, where electors who find it difficult to fill up the enumeration forms can seek assistance. Protocol violation The directive comes a day after allegations of protocol violations emerged during the third day of the SIR exercise.

The Janata Dal (Secular) had alleged that BLOs in Ward No. 23 of the Ramanagara Town Municipal Council distributed enumeration forms from a wedding hall instead of undertaking door-to-door visits. Separately, a video circulated on social media purportedly showed a Booth Level Agent (BLA) accompanying a BLO during house visits, and distributing political pamphlets, prompting questions over adherence to the Election Commission’s protocol. Responding to the allegations on July 2, Mr. Anbu Kumar had told The Hindu that complaints regarding violations of the Commission’s guidelines should be brought to the notice of the jurisdictional District Election Officers, who have been authorised to inquire into such cases and take appropriate action.

The month-long SIR exercise, which involves house-to-house verification of electors, and collection of enumeration forms, will continue till July 29.