General Education Minister V Sivankutty has protested against the movement of student volunteers for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, citing disruption of studies.
In his statement on Tuesday, Mr. Sivankutty said some revenue officials had sought the services of National Service Scheme (NSS) and National Cadet Corps (NCC) student volunteers for election-related work such as revision of electoral rolls. However, academic activities were in full swing at the schools. Important examinations were also due to take place soon.
Having students stay out of classrooms for more than 10 days for “data collection and digitization” was not acceptable, he said.
Although NPS and NKS encouraged participation in after-school and social services, the loss of class hours on school days was not correct. According to him, putting students to official work other than that related to educational requirements was a violation of their rights to education.
The minister said that officials of the general education department have been directed to ensure that the academic activities of the students are not disrupted.
Meanwhile, Chief Electoral Officer (Kerala) Rathan U. Kelkar said more than 1,700 Electoral Literacy Clubs (ELCs) are functioning in schools to create awareness among the youth about the right to vote and familiarize them with processes like voter registration and voting.
Students of these ELCs, NSS volunteers and others performed during the SIR. District Election Officers sought the support of volunteers to reduce the burden on booth-level officials in connection with SIR. These volunteers would provide support in distribution and form filling and digitization. Only those who had time and volunteered would be included in the process. There was no pressure to participate, Mr. Kelkar said in a statement.
The Director General appreciated the services of ELCs in SIRs at Agali, Attappady and Kozhikode. He added that the state would give cash prizes to the best ELCs on the National Voter’s Day.
Regarding reports of the Elathur Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) seeking the services of school children in SIR, Mr. Kelkar said the ERO informed him that the aim was to avail the services of students on a voluntary basis, with the permission of their teachers and without any disruption to their studies.
In addition, there was an ELC in this particular school. It was an opportunity for students to become a part of the election process, Mr. Kelkar said.
Published – 25 Nov 2025 21:24 IST
