Bhubaneswar, Aug 20: Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has urged Odisha Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) R.S. Gopalan to extend the claims and objections period under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls by at least 30 days beyond the August 19 deadline, citing the prevailing flood and heavy rainfall situation.

In a memorandum submitted on Wednesday, the BJD recalled its earlier representation to the CEO on July 30, seeking an extension to ensure adequate time for electors, political parties and Booth Level Agents (BLAs) to complete the verification process.

The party highlighted the substantial workload pending at various levels, along with the large number of notices and cases requiring hearings and verification. It said the situation had become more difficult due to floods, waterlogging, disrupted road connectivity and displacement in several parts of the state.

The BJD thanked the Election Commission of India (ECI) for extending the original deadline of August 4 to August 19, but said the additional time was still insufficient given the prevailing circumstances.

According to the party, thousands of electors, BLAs and election officials have been affected by the natural calamity, with many people prioritising safety, evacuation and relief activities.

The BJD said visiting BLOs, ERO/AERO offices and designated centres during such conditions was impractical and inequitable. It stressed that adequate time was essential as the claims and objections stage is crucial to prevent the wrongful exclusion of eligible voters.

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