Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar Denies Govt Interference in SIR, Calls Opposition Allegations Politicised

On July 7, 2026, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar rejected allegations of government interference in the ongoing Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SIR) process in the state. He stated that all officials involved in the SIR were operating under the direct supervision of the Election Commission of India (ECI), and urged the ECI to investigate any complaints made by opposition parties. The CM made these remarks after a delegation of NDA leaders submitted a formal complaint to the Karnataka Chief Electoral Officer, alleging widespread irregularities in the house-to-house enumeration phase of the SIR, which began on June 30 and will conclude on July 29.

The opposition parties, including BJP and JD(S), accused the Congress-led government of facilitating the inclusion of illegal migrants through mass enrolment camps, citing videos showing large gatherings at registration sites. They demanded a door-to-door re-verification of all forms and legal action against responsible officials. In response, Shivakumar asserted that the state government had not overruled or influenced the ECI’s procedures. He emphasized that the government was cooperating fully with the ECI to ensure every eligible citizen’s right to vote is protected, and that awareness campaigns were being conducted through Booth Level Agents (BLAs) and civil society groups.

The CM also highlighted that over 4.5 crore people had obtained caste certificates through government portals, and that residential certificates were being issued to help individuals participate in the SIR. He dismissed claims of misuse of officers, stating that the government was merely fulfilling its constitutional duty to safeguard voting rights. He accused the opposition of exploiting the SIR process to target poor and minority communities, and questioned why the BJP had not acted against illegal migrants during its previous tenure. He reiterated that the government was implementing five welfare schemes to protect livelihoods and had set up help desks at every booth to assist voters.

The SIR in Karnataka is part of a nationwide exercise to update electoral rolls and collect data on caste, religion, and socio-economic status. The ECI has mandated that all political parties and civil groups may nominate BLAs to assist in verification. The state government’s stance reflects a broader national debate on electoral integrity, inclusion, and the role of state governments in election-related processes under ECI supervision.

The controversy underscores the tension between electoral transparency and political accountability. The ECI’s role as an impartial authority is central to resolving such disputes. The SIR process, while technical, has become a flashpoint in state-level politics, particularly in states with diverse populations and high electoral stakes.