In response to criticism from opposition parties regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar clarified that updating voter lists before every election is standard procedure and legally mandated. He emphasized that this practice addresses past complaints from political parties about voter list inaccuracies. Kumar stated that the current revision, which has been underway since January 1, 2003, involves a comprehensive review of voter details. He also highlighted the involvement of over 1 lakh booth-level officers, with support from all political parties, to ensure the accuracy of the electoral rolls. The CEC assured that the process aims to exclude ineligible individuals. The SIR, conducted by the Election Commission of India (ECI), is designed to ensure electoral rolls are accurate for upcoming elections. Concerns have been raised by figures like Congress leader Sachin Pilot, who questioned the Election Commission’s speed and lack of transparency. Opposition parties, including the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), have expressed fears that the SIR could be used to disenfranchise vulnerable voters. The ECI maintains that the exercise adheres to constitutional provisions and aims to remove ineligible entries while ensuring no eligible voter is omitted.
