Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 29 February 2024
The Electoral Registration Officer of the A&N Parliamentary Constituency has raised concerns over a surge in applications submitted in Form ‘7’ aimed at deleting voter names from the Electoral Roll. It was discovered that numerous applications were filed using false and bogus numbers, rendering them questionable in authenticity. In response to this alarming trend, authorities have escalated the matter, lodging a complaint with the relevant Station House Officer (SHO) to launch an investigation.
The Election Department has outlined a meticulous procedure for addressing such cases, which is being rigorously adhered to. Lists of all claims and objections received are being diligently uploaded onto the CEO’s Portal on a daily basis, ensuring transparency in the process. Additionally, these lists are being shared with recognized political parties for enhanced scrutiny.
Individuals whose names have been targeted for deletion are being notified via registered post through a formal “Format B” notice, providing them with an opportunity to raise objections if necessary. The public and political entities are encouraged to remain vigilant and stay informed about Electoral Roll updates through the CEO’s Portal at https://www.ceoandaman.nic.in.
Applications submitted in Form ‘7’, whether online or physically, are promptly directed to the respective Booth Level Officer (BLO) for thorough field inquiries to verify the authenticity of the claims or objections. Following the submission of a comprehensive report by the BLO, the competent authority takes requisite action based on the evidence provided.
Furthermore, citizens are urged to maintain vigilance and promptly report any instances of individuals filing Form ‘7’ with malicious intent to the Electoral Registration Officer in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is emphasised that making false declarations carries legal repercussions under Section 31 of the Representation of People Act 1950.