The Election Commission has announced plans to conduct Systematic Electoral Roll Revision (SIR) across the entire country, building upon its experience in Bihar. The commission’s intention was revealed through an affidavit filed in response to a petition requesting SIR in various states, including West Bengal. The affidavit confirmed that the Election Commission has directed Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) across all states to initiate preparations for SIR.
The reference date for SIR across India is set for January 1, 2026, and all activities will be based on this date. The Election Commission maintains that it holds the responsibility and authority to carry out SIR. Considering the upcoming assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal in 2026, the commission will conduct SIR in these states prior to the elections.
The Election Commission has stated that it will take the challenges faced during the recent SIR in Bihar into account while implementing SIR in other states. The Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar informed the commission about the processes and difficulties encountered during the SIR, so as to prevent similar problems from occurring and ensuring the smooth implementation of SIR in other states.
A recent meeting convened by the Election Commission brought together Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) from all states and union territories. The discussions focused on various important topics related to SIR in different states, as well as emphasizing the proper execution of the upcoming assembly elections.
The Election Commission initially decided to conduct SIR in Bihar to correct inaccuracies in the voter lists. Following this, the commission announced that it would conduct SIR throughout the country. This decision received criticism from the opposition, with claims that the BJP intended to manipulate votes and deny people their right to vote, which led to legal challenges.