Objective of the Move
- Aims to enhance the accuracy of electoral rolls by removing names of deceased voters.
- Strengthens electoral integrity amid allegations of manipulation in voter rolls during recent Assembly elections.
Relevance : GS 2(Governance, Election)
Legal Basis
- Based on:
- Rule 9 of the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960.
- Section 3(5)(b) of the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969, amended in 2023.
Key Features of the Reform
- Electronic sharing of death data from the Registrar-General of India to EC.
- Allows timely and automatic updates to voter rolls without relying on public complaints (Form 7).
- Empowers Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and Booth-Level Officers (BLOs) to act proactively.
Role of Booth-Level Officers (BLOs)
- Appointed under Section 13B(2) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.
- Act as the first point of contact between voters and the EC.
- Will now receive official photo identity cards for greater legitimacy and easier interaction with citizens.
Voter Information Slip Redesign
- Improved layout for better voter experience.
- Serial number and part number to be displayed in larger font for easier polling station identification.
- Aims to assist both voters and polling officials on election day.
Context and Significance
- Comes at a time of political scrutiny over voter roll integrity.
- Reflects EC’s effort to modernise and automate electoral roll maintenance.
- Enhances transparency, efficiency, and citizen trust in electoral processes.
