Mobile number not mandatory for SIR forms, says Election Commission

CHENNAI: The Election Commission had to intervene on Monday to clarify that a mobile number is not mandatory for filling out Special Intensive Revision (SIR) forms, after tension prevailed in several parts of the city on Sunday, when residents argued with Booth Level Officers (BLOs) over the issue.

Officials of the Election Commission of India (ECI) clarified that mobile numbers are optional and not mandatory, following residents' concerns about possible misuse.

Residents alleged that party-based Booth Level Agents (BLAs) were collecting mobile numbers from filled-in forms. “Despite objections from BLOs, BLAs note down our numbers from the forms. We fear unknown persons may misuse them,” said a resident of Kotturpuram.

In the enumeration form, Aadhaar and mobile numbers are listed as the second and third fields. While Aadhaar is clearly marked as optional, the mobile number field is not labelled as either mandatory or optional, leading to confusion among voters.

“Even though it is not compulsory, BLOs insist that we provide our mobile number. The Election Department must issue clear instructions to field staff,” said a resident of Kodambakkam.

When contacted, officials from the Election Department said Aadhaar is not mandatory. Voters may provide their mobile numbers if available, they added.