New Delhi, Dec 8 (IANS) The ECI has reported significant progress in Phase 2 of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, with most of the 12 states and Union Territories recording near-complete distribution and digitisation of elector-specific enumeration forms (EFs), official data showed on Monday.

Across all 12 states and Union Territories, a total of 50.95 crore forms have been distributed, accounting for 99.95 per cent of electors. Digitisation of EFs stands at 50.33 crore forms, equivalent to 98.69 per cent, the Election Commission of India (ECI) said in its daily bulletin.

The enumeration phase, which began on November 4 and concludes on December 11, aims to update and verify the electoral roll across the country through Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by recognised political parties.

According to the bulletin, Lakshadweep, Goa and Andaman and Nicobar Islands achieved 100 per cent distribution of EFs.

Rajasthan, excluding the 193-Anta Assembly Constituency, where the revision has been deferred due to a by-election, also reported 100 per cent distribution. Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Puducherry recorded distribution levels of 100 per cent, 99.99 per cent and 99.98 per cent, respectively.

On the digitisation front as well, Lakshadweep and Rajasthan achieved 100 per cent completion.

States such as Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh followed closely with 99.97 per cent and 99.89 per cent digitisation, respectively.

West Bengal recorded 99.64 per cent, while Gujarat reported 99.68 per cent digitisation.

Tamil Nadu and Kerala showed comparatively slower progress in digitisation. Tamil Nadu recorded 99.27 per cent, while Kerala stood at 97.42 per cent.

Uttar Pradesh, the state with the largest electorate of over 15.44 crore, completed 99.95 per cent distribution of EFs but reported 96.91 per cent digitisation of forms.

The bulletin also noted that digitised figures include entries identified as absent, shifted, deceased or duplicate.

The ECI urged recognised political parties to appoint additional BLAs where required to maintain the pace of verification.

The Commission also notified that the last date for submission of forms in Kerala has been extended till December 18.

–IANS

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