Nationwide voter roll revision SIR likely to begin by October: Reports

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to launch a special nationwide revision of the electoral rolls, with the massive exercise expected to begin by October. The green light for the initiative was given during a high-level meeting with Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) from all states and Union Territories on Wednesday. The move is aimed at ensuring the accuracy and integrity of voter lists across the country, a crucial step ahead of upcoming electoral cycles.

This nationwide effort, known as the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), follows a similar fast-tracked voter roll revision recently conducted in Bihar in preparation for the state assembly elections. The ECI now plans to scale up this process to cover all states and Union Territories, ensuring a comprehensive and uniform approach. Sources indicate that the official announcement for the SIR could be made even before the Bihar elections are concluded.

During the day-long conference-cum-workshop, a primary focus was placed on the logistical preparations for the revision. The Election Commission asked the state CEOs to confirm their readiness for the exercise. Most officials assured the Commission that they would have the necessary groundwork completed by September, paving the way for a smooth launch in October. The extensive meeting included detailed presentations on the operational aspects of the drive.

A key directive from the ECI to state CEOs was the preparation of a list of locally accepted documents for voter verification. The Commission has emphasized the need to be inclusive and sensitive to regional variations, particularly in states with tribal populations, in the Northeast, and in coastal areas. It has asked officials to recognize and use a variety of identity and residence proofs, including certificates from regional autonomous councils and local bodies, to ensure no eligible voter is left out.

The ECI has stated that the core objective of the Special Intensive Revision is to "clean up" the voter lists. This involves a meticulous process of deleting the names of deceased individuals, those who have permanently moved away, and duplicate entries. At the same time, the drive is equally committed to enrolling every eligible citizen who is not yet on the electoral roll, thereby making the voter lists more accurate and up-to-date.