The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha, RS Gopalan, has ordered a strict verification process for approximately 9.8 lakh names flagged for deletion from the state's voter list after numerous complaints of wrongful removals emerged. This directive comes amidst the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, where Booth Level Officers (BLOs) identified names for deletion primarily due to deaths or relocations. However, Gopalan clarified that BLOs can only report cases, with final decisions resting with Electoral Registration Officers (EROs). In response to the complaints, the CEO instructed EROs to halt action on around 2 lakh cases already under scrutiny, ensuring that at least 50% of these will undergo further checks for accuracy. Concerns have been raised by opposition parties, including the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Congress, regarding the unusually high number of deletions this year compared to the annual average of 7 lakh. BJD leaders have alleged political bias in the process, urging the government and the Election Commission of India (ECI) to rectify any discrepancies. To assist voters, the CEO's office has launched a toll-free helpline (1950) for inquiries regarding voter status and complaints.