The Election Commission will commence a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls nationwide from October. The process will be implemented in all states following the experience in Bihar. New voters will be added, corrections will be made, and electoral transparency will be enhanced.
Bihar SIR: The Election Commission of India has prepared for the potential launch of a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls nationwide from October. The objective of this process is to update the voter list and increase transparency in the electoral process. The Commission held a detailed review meeting with the Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of all states and Union Territories. During this meeting, presentations were given for over three and a half hours, and each state was asked to prepare a list of locally valid documents for voter verification.
When will the SIR process begin?
Sources indicate that the Election Commission has instructed the CEOs of all states to complete preparations by September 30. Most states have expressed confidence that they will be fully ready on time. The formal announcement of a nationwide SIR is expected from the Commission before the Bihar Assembly elections. The final dates will be announced once all state CEOs submit their progress reports to the Commission.
Objectives and Benefits of SIR
The Special Intensive Revision includes the addition of new names to the electoral roll, updating old details, and ensuring correct information. The Commission believes that this process will not only make the voter list accurate but also increase trust and transparency in electoral procedures. The Commission's goal is to ensure that every eligible voter is included in the list and that no legitimate voter's name is removed without notice.
Experience of the SIR process in Bihar
The SIR process has already been successfully completed in Bihar. In the first phase, from June 24 to July 25, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) conducted door-to-door verification of voters' details. Following this, a draft list was published on August 1, containing a total of 7.24 crore names. This was approximately 65 lakh fewer names compared to the previous year. During the claims and objections period, from August 1 to September 1, 16,56,886 people applied to add new names. During the same period, 2,17,049 people applied for deletion of names and 36,475 people applied for corrections.
List of documents for states
The Election Commission has requested each state to prepare a list of locally valid documents. This list will vary from state to state. For example, in tribal-dominated states, North-Eastern states, and coastal states, special certificates related to identity and residence may be required. In many places, regional autonomous boards and bodies also issue such certificates.
No one will be removed without notice
The Election Commission has clarified that no legitimate voter's name will be removed without notice. A notice will be issued to the voter, their side will be heard, and only then will a final decision be made. The Commission has assured that the SIR process will be completely transparent and impartial.
Process for new applications and corrections
The third phase of the SIR process began on September 2. This phase includes applications for adding new voters, making corrections, and deleting names. All applications are being accepted through both online and offline channels. BLOs and concerned officials will verify the applications, and changes will be made to the list after verification.
Importance of SIR in electoral preparations
The Special Intensive Revision is a crucial step towards ensuring the accuracy of electoral rolls. This will help the Election Commission conduct fair elections nationwide. The Commission also aims to ensure that new and young voters can update their information in a timely manner and that no one is deprived of their voting rights.
