The Election Commission of India has directed 22 states and Union Territories to begin preparations for the final phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, which is expected to be carried out in April.
According to official sources, the poll body has asked chief electoral officers to complete groundwork related to booth-level verification, rationalisation of polling stations and updating of voter databases ahead of the concluding revision drive. The exercise is aimed at ensuring that electoral rolls remain accurate, inclusive and free from duplication or ineligible entries.
The SIR process involves door-to-door verification by Booth Level Officers (BLOs), correction of discrepancies, deletion of deceased or shifted voters and inclusion of newly eligible voters who have attained 18 years of age. Officials said the Commission has emphasised strict adherence to timelines so that updated rolls are ready well before any upcoming elections.
States have also been instructed to enhance public awareness campaigns to encourage citizens to check their voter details and file claims or objections within the stipulated period. Special focus is expected on urban areas with high migration rates and remote regions where enrolment gaps have previously been flagged.
The final phase of SIR is considered critical as it ensures transparency and strengthens public confidence in the electoral process. The Commission has reiterated that political parties will be allowed to appoint booth-level agents to observe the revision exercise, maintaining procedural fairness.
With preparations expected to gather pace over the coming weeks, election officials across the 22 states and UTs are now mobilising staff and resources to meet the April timeline. The move signals the Commission’s readiness to keep electoral rolls updated and robust ahead of future democratic exercises.
