Voter list like an erroneous Panchanga; 30 days should be allowed to add names: Opposition leader VD Satheesan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Opposition leader V.D. Satheesan has demanded an extension of 15 days to the deadline for updating the voter list related to local body elections.

"Free and fair elections cannot be held using a voter list which is like an erroneous Panchanga that is full of widespread irregularities. Names can be added to the voter list till the last date for filing nominations. Then why was it limited to 15 days from July 23 to August 7? This is puzzling," Satheesan said at a press conference.

"Despite the completion of delimitation and publication of the electoral roll, the sketch of the ward has not been provided. How can a name be added to the electoral roll without knowing the boundaries of the ward? Adding someone's name and changing the vote to another place is a laborious process. It is not right for the Election Commission to act according to the wishes of the CPM leadership. The delimitation was done for the convenience of the CPM in violation of the High Court's directive. The UDF will fight this legally," said Satheesan.

Other major allegations

1. Names of many who voted last time are missing
2. Names of people who died four years ago are in the list
3. Votes of people from the same house are in different wards
4. Some voters with votes in three wards
5. Number of polling booths reduced
6. Situation where polling will not be over even at 10 pm