Election Commission Clarifies Identity Notice Issued to Ex-Navy Chief Admiral Arun Prakash

Background of the Notice

In a recent clarification, the Election Commission (EC) addressed the controversy surrounding a notice issued to former Navy chief Admiral Arun Prakash during Goa’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The committee stated that a combination of a “system-driven procedure” and “incomplete details” from Admiral Prakash’s prior enumeration form led to the demand for him to prove his identity in person.

Social Media Outcry

The notice triggered significant backlash on social media, with many veterans and citizens questioning why such a highly decorated officer, an 81-year-old Vir Chakra awardee and 1971 war hero, was required to validate his identity.

Issue Resolved

Officials have since confirmed that Admiral Prakash’s form has been correctly completed, and he is no longer required to make an appearance for verification.

Details from the Electoral Registration Officer

Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) Dr. Medora Ermomilla D’Costa provided further insights into the situation. The Booth Level Officer (BLO) for the Cortalim constituency collected Admiral Prakash’s form but noted it was missing mandatory details from previous revisions, making it impossible to link with the existing electoral roll database.

Specific Details Lacking

Dr. D’Costa explained that Admiral Prakash’s form lacked critical information, including:

• Elector’s name
• EPIC number
• Name of a relative
• Name and number of the assembly constituency
• Part number
• Serial number in the electoral roll

Due to these omissions, the system categorized the form under an "unmapped" status.

Standard Procedure and Hearing Notice

According to Dr. D’Costa, the standard, system-driven procedure automatically generated a hearing notice to ensure verification of the elector’s details and a chance for confirmation of eligibility.

Admiral Prakash’s Response

In response to the notice, Admiral Prakash took to social media to discuss the challenges faced by elderly citizens. He expressed that while he does not seek special privileges, there should be revisions to the SIR forms to capture the required information accurately. He also noted that the BLO had made three visits to his home and could have asked for the missing documents during those times.

Conclusion

The Election Commission’s clarification highlights the importance of accurate data collection in electoral processes and the potential hurdles faced by senior citizens in navigating these systems.

(With PTI inputs)