The Election Commission is gearing up for a comprehensive Systematic Electoral Roll Revision (SIR) across India, building on its recent efforts in Bihar. An affidavit filed by the commission in response to a petition concerning SIR in multiple states, including West Bengal, outlined these plans. The commission has already instructed the Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of all states to begin preparations for the nationwide SIR.
The reference date for the national SIR process is set as January 1, 2026, which will inform the preparation and execution of the revisions. The Election Commission has asserted its exclusive authority and responsibility for conducting SIR. Given the upcoming assembly elections in 2026 in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, the commission will prioritize SIR in these regions.
The Election Commission will carefully consider the challenges faced during the recent SIR in Bihar while executing the process in other states. The Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar provided the commission with insights into the methodologies and obstacles encountered during the SIR, with the goal of averting similar issues and ensuring a seamless implementation of SIR in other states.
A recent gathering of the Election Commission involved Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) from all states and union territories. Discussions centered on key issues pertinent to SIR in different states, along with a focus on effectively managing the forthcoming assembly elections.
The Election Commission’s initial implementation of SIR aimed to rectify voter list inaccuracies in Bihar. Following this, the commission revealed its intention to conduct SIR nationwide. This decision drew criticism from opposition parties, who alleged that the BJP was seeking to manipulate votes and deprive citizens of their voting rights, which subsequently led to legal disputes.
