The Election Commission of India (ECI) has clarified that its order dated June 24, 2025, regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls across all states and Union Territories was made with unanimous consent from all members of the Commission. This order has been confirmed by the Supreme Court of India. The clarification follows a recent meeting chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar at Nirvachan Sadan, New Delhi, on September 26, 2026.

During this meeting, which included Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, several key decisions were announced concerning the ongoing process related to the electoral rolls. The Commission noted that a letter sent to the Cabinet Secretary was focused on the duties of an officer in deputation to the ECI and was not associated with policy matters or the IT division of the Commission.

These discussions highlighted the steps being taken to improve the electoral process, ensuring accessibility for all citizens, particularly those living in challenging circumstances, including labourers and the homeless.

Steps for Electoral Roll Improvement Noted

The ECI outlined specific measures to facilitate the revision and update of electoral rolls. For individuals who received notices regarding unmapped and logical discrepancies during the ongoing SIR, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will conduct home visits to collect necessary documents for submission to the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO). In most cases, hearings will not require physical attendance, and online options are being enhanced to streamline this process.

District Election Officers (DEOs) have been tasked with establishing help desks and organising special camps aimed at assisting disadvantaged groups to ensure their participation in the electoral process. This initiative is part of the commitment to uphold the democratic rights of all citizens.

Additionally, the Supreme Court has upheld the declaration attached to Form 6, confirming the procedures to be followed during the SIR and beyond. Future IT initiatives within the Commission will involve a committee review prior to receiving approval, demonstrating a commitment to systematic oversight and accountability.

Extensions Granted for Claims and Objections

The Election Commission has extended the timeline for filing claims and objections until October 30, 2026, with notices to be resolved by November 30, 2026. In Maharashtra, these deadlines have been specifically extended until October 12 and November 10, 2026, respectively, in response to requests from the Chief Electoral Officer of the state.

Moreover, it has been communicated that any individual whose name was omitted during the SIR, including first-time voters, is eligible to request inclusion in the electoral rolls. Chief Electoral Officers are instructed to ensure that necessary assistance is provided for these applications and to actively promote enrolment drives.

The ECI also confirmed that the process of SIR has been completed in 20 states and Union Territories, with efforts continuing to ensure all eligible voters are included. An emphasis on outreach through house-to-house visits has already led to a positive response in states like Goa.

To summarise, the Election Commission’s clarifications and recent decisions reflect an ongoing commitment to refine the electoral process, enhance transparency, and ensure that the rights of all voters are upheld. The Commission is focused on maintaining an inclusive environment for democratic participation, bolstered by comprehensive measures and strategic oversight.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share