The Election Commission is moving forward with Systematic Electoral Roll Revision (SIR) across the entire country, following its implementation in Bihar. The commission submitted an affidavit in response to a petition seeking SIR in various states, including West Bengal. The petition highlighted that the commission had instructed Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of all states to prepare for SIR.
The cut-off date for SIR nationwide is January 1, 2026, serving as the basis for all preparations. The commission has affirmed its authority and responsibility to conduct SIR. Assembly elections are scheduled for 2026 in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, and the commission will conduct SIR in these states before the elections.
The Election Commission has clarified that it will take into consideration the challenges encountered during the recent SIR in Bihar while conducting SIR in other states. The Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar briefed the commission on the processes and obstacles encountered during the SIR, aiming to prevent similar issues and ensure a smooth implementation in other states.
The Election Commission recently held a meeting with the Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of all states and union territories. Discussions focused on key issues related to SIR in different states, with an emphasis on conducting the upcoming assembly elections effectively.
The Election Commission initially decided to conduct SIR to rectify discrepancies in the voter list in Bihar. Subsequently, the commission announced its plan to conduct SIR nationwide. This decision faced criticism from opposition parties, who alleged that the BJP aimed to manipulate votes and disenfranchise voters, leading to legal challenges.
