TPCC Panel Seeks Clarity on Graduate Voter Registration in Telangana

The TPCC Election Commission Coordination Committee has urged Telangana Chief Electoral Officer to issue clear guidelines on voter registration for graduates working in Hyderabad and other cities. The representation was submitted by committee chairman Pulipati Rajesh Kumar, SSA chairman Gampa Venu and TPCC ECCC member Gopishetty Raghavender. They highlighted the confusion faced by thousands of graduates employed in the IT, IT-enabled services, financial and corporate sectors, particularly those who are temporarily residing in Hyderabad while remaining registered as ordinary voters in their hometowns. The committee sought clarity on Form 18 applications, the use of EPIC details, eligibility requirements and the criteria for identifying the appropriate Graduates’ Constituency.

The committee also requested clarification on whether rented accommodation agreements, employer-issued residence certificates and utility bills could be accepted as proof of ordinary residence under Section 19 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950. It sought guidance for graduates who have moved to Hyderabad from other Telangana districts or other states, along with procedures to prevent multiple registrations. Highlighting the large number of professionals living in IT hubs such as HITEC City, Gachibowli and Madhapur, the committee stressed that clear and transparent rules are necessary to prevent duplicate voting and help eligible graduates participate in the democratic process. It urged the Chief Electoral Officer’s office to publish comprehensive guidelines or FAQs addressing these concerns.