Delhi SIR Controversy: VIP Voter App and Voter Deletions Explained
Delhi’s SIR exercise has sparked controversy over voter deletions and a “Mark VIP” feature in the BLO app, with officials saying notices do not automatically mean deletion.
The ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Delhi’s electoral rolls has triggered controversy over voter deletions and the Election Commission’s “Mark VIP” feature in the Booth Level Officer application.
A recent investigation reported that the BLO app includes a module allowing officials to identify certain electors as VIPs during verification. Reports said categories such as ministers, judges, bureaucrats, advocates, media professionals and other prominent individuals could be flagged for special handling. The investigation alleged that some VIP voters received faster, doorstep assistance during the verification process.
The controversy comes amid large-scale changes to Delhi’s voter rolls. According to the Delhi CEO office, around 47.7 lakh names were excluded from the draft electoral roll from the earlier total of about 1.45 crore voters. Around 31.6 lakh electors received notices requiring verification. However, election officials have clarified that receiving a notice does not automatically mean a voter has been deleted permanently, and affected voters have an opportunity to respond.
Some reports and political voices have described the exercise as disenfranchisement, while election authorities maintain that the SIR is intended to verify and update electoral records.
With claims of preferential treatment now adding another layer to the debate, Delhi’s voter-roll revision has become less about just paperwork and more about who gets the fast lane.
