Mains issueGS-2News & Analysis30 September 2026

Electoral Roll Revision and Challenges to Voter Inclusion

An aspirant should be able to critically analyze the Election Commission's electoral roll revision process, identifying its necessity for integrity while also addressing the administrative challenges and potential for disenfranchisement, and suggesting reforms for greater accuracy, transparency, and inclusivity.

Source: thehindu.comOriginal report

Understand the issue · 1/2

Why now

The Election Commission's ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process has led to the deletion of 13.3 crore names, with a significant portion in the 'absent, shifted, or others' category, sparking protests and raising concerns about potential disenfranchisement ahead of elections.

Core issue

The Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process has led to the deletion of nearly 13.3 crore names from electoral rolls nationwide. Over 71% (9.5 crore) of these deletions fall under the 'absent, shifted, or others' category, while 20% were due to death and 7.6% were multiple entries. The article highlights that many in the 'absent, shifted, or others' category could potentially be re-added using Form 6. The process has drawn criticism and protests from civil society and opposition parties, who demand the scrapping of SIR and re-inclusion of all deleted names, citing concerns about potential disenfranchisement. The SIR exercise has covered most of the country, with some regional variations.

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