The Election Commission of India (ECI) has begun a two-day meeting in New Delhi with Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) from all states and Union Territories to discuss the nationwide Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The meeting, which started on Wednesday, is being attended by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar and the two Election Commissioners. It will continue till Thursday afternoon.
According to Commission sources, this is the second and final preparatory meeting before the nationwide SIR exercise is launched. The meeting aims to streamline the process of updating voter lists ahead of upcoming Assembly elections in several states.
In Bihar, the SIR process has already been completed, paving the way for election preparations. Assembly polls in West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and the Union Territory of Puducherry are due in April–May next year. The Commission plans to complete the SIR in these states and some others in the first phase.
Officials said the process may vary from state to state. In some regions, including West Bengal, the Commission may introduce new mechanisms for the revision. Cooperation from state administrations will be essential for smooth implementation.
The ECI called the meeting amid political concerns over transparency in the revision process. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had earlier questioned the fairness of the SIR. However, the Commission clarified that the meeting was intended to review existing reports rather than seek new submissions from state officials.
Earlier this month, the Chief Election Commissioner had stated that the SIR is underway across the country and that the final schedule will be decided soon. The current meeting is also expected to finalise directions for states regarding publication of electoral rolls, training of officials, and appointment of Booth Level Officers.
The ECI described the session as a follow-up to an earlier meeting held on September 10. Discussions are also being held on the publication of previous revision rolls and preparations for the next phase of the voter list update.