The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed 17 states and five Union Territories to begin preparations for the next phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, which is expected to start in April.
According to officials, the move is aimed at ensuring that voter lists remain accurate, inclusive, and up to date ahead of future elections. The Special Intensive Revision process focuses on adding eligible new voters, removing duplicate or deceased entries, and correcting errors in existing records.
The ECI has asked Chief Electoral Officers of the concerned states and UTs to review their infrastructure, manpower availability and digital systems to smoothly conduct the exercise. Special emphasis has been placed on reaching first time voters, migrant workers, urban poor and other underrepresented sections of society.
Election authorities have also been instructed to strengthen coordination with local administrations, schools and municipal bodies to verify data and improve enrollment coverage. Awareness drives and booth level activities are expected to be intensified once the revision officially begins.
Officials noted that the SIR is a critical step to maintain the credibility of the electoral process. “Clean and updated voter rolls are the foundation of free and fair elections,” an election official said, highlighting that the revision will be carried out under strict guidelines and monitoring.
While the ECI has not announced the exact start date, internal planning suggests the next phase will roll out in April, with detailed schedules to be released separately for each state and Union Territory.
The exercise is part of the Commission’s broader effort to modernise electoral management and strengthen public trust in democratic institutions. By proactively preparing for the next phase of SIR, the ECI aims to ensure that every eligible citizen gets the opportunity to vote without administrative hurdles.
Conclusion:
The Election Commission’s directive signals an early push toward election readiness. With preparations already underway in 17 states and five UTs, the upcoming Special Intensive Revision is expected to play a key role in improving voter participation and safeguarding the integrity of India’s electoral rolls.
