New Delhi — The Election Commission of India (ECI) has given the green light for the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, aiming to create comprehensive and transparent voter lists across the country. This exercise will be implemented in nine states and three Union Territories.
The decision follows the successful completion of the first phase in Bihar, though it has not been without controversy. Several political parties have raised objections, voicing concerns over potential misuse of the revision process.
What is SIR?
The Special Intensive Revision is a targeted, time-sensitive door-to-door verification initiative designed to ensure the accuracy and completeness of electoral rolls. Unlike routine annual updates, SIR involves thorough verification steps, including the removal of ineligible voters—such as those who are deceased or have moved—and the registration of new voters who have recently turned 18. The process also identifies and removes duplicate entries registered at multiple locations, thereby bolstering electoral transparency.
Role of BLOs and Verification Procedure
Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are at the forefront of SIR, visiting each household at least three times to verify voter details. Existing voters confirm their information, while potential new voters fill out Form 6 for registration. Corrections or deletions are made through specific forms, and citizens not listed in the draft voter lists are required to submit proof of age and citizenship. After addressing objections and claims, the final electoral roll is published. The last nationwide intensive revision was conducted between 2002 and 2004.
Political Reactions and ECI’s Response
The opposition has voiced concerns that SIR may be exploited to target minorities, Dalits, backward classes, migrants, women, and the economically disadvantaged. Following Bihar’s first phase, reports indicated the removal of thousands of names from draft lists, fueling fears of voter disenfranchisement.
In response, the ECI has dismissed these allegations, emphasizing that the process is crucial for removing fake and ineligible voters. To enhance verification, the commission has refined procedures for the second phase, including linking voter information with details from relatives’ previous SIR lists.
Under the authority of Article 324 of the Indian Constitution and Section 21(2)(a) of the Representation of the People Act, such detailed revisions are legally mandated to uphold the integrity of electoral rolls.