Bengal Voter List Correction: The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the Voter List is in full swing across Bengal, with massive campaigning efforts underway. Till Sunday, over 5.15 crore count forms have been distributed across the state.
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As lakhs of citizens are set to submit their forms, many are unsure about the process, from what type of photo is required to what happens if there is a mistake. Each form has a unique QR code, making it almost impossible to issue a duplicate, so it is crucial to fill it correctly the first time.
What type of photo is required for the form?
To ensure clarity and avoid rejection, citizens are advised to attach a colour photo with a white background. Officials say black-and-white photos are no longer acceptable.
What ink and language should be used to fill the form?
As per the Representation of the People Act, the voter list in West Bengal is maintained in three languages - Bengali, English and Hindi in some areas. Voters can fill the form in any of these languages without any problem. However, it is preferable to use Bengali or English, as it will be easier to cross-check the names after the final list is published, especially where the list is not published in Devanagari script (Hindi).
There are no strict guidelines regarding the colour of ink, but blue or black ink is suggested for clarity and legibility.
What should you do if you make a mistake while filling the form?
If there is an error, correct it next to the error and sign the correction. Since each form has a unique QR code for each voter, it is not possible to issue a replacement form. Two copies of the form are issued – if one is damaged, the clean copy has to be submitted to the BLO and the other kept with the voter, said officials of the Chief Electoral Office (CEO).
Officials of the Chief Electoral Officer said that with over seven crore voters in Bengal, it is “virtually impossible” to issue duplicate forms.
Who qualifies as a ‘relative’ or ‘connected person’ for the purpose of linking in the voter list?
For the purpose of establishing family relationships in the voter list, blood relationship is considered valid. This generally includes:
Paternal side: Father, Mother, Grandfather
Maternal side: Grandfather
If the name of any of these relatives is in the voter list, the applicant can use it for connection along with proof of age and address. There is no provision for establishing a connection beyond these immediate family members.