Voter Roll Cleanup: States Gear Up for Intensive SIR Initiative

The Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) aims to update voters' lists across nine states and three Union territories. Concluding in February 2026, the initiative focuses on refining electoral rolls, especially in states due for 2026 polls. Assam will have a separate revision due to ongoing citizenship verification.

The Election Commission has initiated Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercises in nine states and three Union territories, impacting 51 crore voters starting Tuesday.

The revision will conclude with the publication of final electoral rolls on February 7, 2026. This marks the second round of SIR after Bihar, focusing on states including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and West Bengal, slated for elections in 2026.

Assam's electoral roll revision will follow separately under Supreme Court supervision. The SIR aims to exclude illegal migrants and ensure no eligible elector is omitted, amidst political concerns of potential citizen disenfranchisement.

(With inputs from agencies.)