SHILLONG, June 20: East Shillong MLA Ampareen Lyngdoh has sounded an alarm over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, warning that the requirement for “legacy documents” could unfairly target and exclude indigenous residents who lack formal paperwork like birth certificates or caste records.
Speaking after a meeting with constituents on Saturday, the NPP legislator pointed to significant administrative ambiguity surrounding the exercise. While acknowledging the Election Commission’s authority to review rolls, she argued that the process and documentation requirements remain dangerously unclear.
A primary concern involves reports that the 2005 electoral rolls may be used as a reference point. Lyngdoh questioned whether a specific cut-off year would be enforced, potentially forcing citizens to trace their lineage through their parents to establish proof of citizenship.
“What happens to citizens who do not possess these documents?” she asked, noting that even many indigenous residents lack birth certificates or supporting records. She highlighted the uncertainty over which documents—such as school admit cards—would be accepted as valid evidence.
Lyngdoh warned that many residents may now be forced to approach government authorities to obtain records to prove their place of origin. She urged authorities to ensure the exercise is transparent and provides adequate opportunities for all citizens to establish eligibility.
