In a significant announcement ahead of National Voters' Day, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar revealed that the Election Commission will soon extend its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls to all remaining states and Union Territories across India. This initiative, aimed at ensuring pure and accurate voter lists, represents a major step in strengthening the democratic framework of the nation.
Expanding the Special Intensive Revision Nationwide
During a video address to electors on the eve of National Voters' Day, CEC Gyanesh Kumar outlined the Election Commission's achievements and innovations for the year 2025. He highlighted that the EC had undertaken 30 major initiatives, with the SIR of electoral rolls being a prominent effort. Kumar emphasized, "Pure electoral rolls are the bedrock of democracy. With this objective, the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls was initiated... It will soon be rolled out in the remaining states as well."
Current Implementation and Future Plans
The SIR was first conducted in Bihar last year, following the EC's nationwide order on June 24, 2025, which was timed ahead of Assembly elections in the state. Subsequently, on October 27, 2025, the schedule was announced for nine states and three Union Territories. As of now, the exercise is actively ongoing in:
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands
- Puducherry
- Lakshadweep
- Rajasthan
- Madhya Pradesh
- Uttar Pradesh
- West Bengal
- Tamil Nadu
- Kerala
- Gujarat
- Goa
- Chhattisgarh
In these regions, draft rolls have been published in December and January, with final rolls scheduled for publication in February and March. The SIR marks a departure from the usual special summary revision by preparing electoral rolls afresh, a process not undertaken for about two decades, ensuring comprehensive updates and accuracy.
Broader Electoral Initiatives and Youth Engagement
Beyond the SIR, CEC Kumar announced that the Election Commission will launch a new youth-centric programme in 2026. This initiative is designed to educate and engage young citizens about electoral processes, fostering greater participation and awareness among India's future voters. This move aligns with the EC's ongoing efforts to innovate and enhance the electoral system, building on the 30 major projects completed in 2025.
The expansion of the SIR and the focus on youth engagement underscore the Election Commission's commitment to maintaining robust and transparent electoral mechanisms, crucial for upholding democratic values in India.
