Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Electoral Rolls

The Election Commission (EC) has recently completed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, with plans to implement this in other States gradually. This exercise is supported by the Representation of the People Act, 1950, which allows for both summary and special revision of electoral rolls.

Process in Bihar

• The SIR in Bihar involved several key steps: 
  • Submission of enumeration forms by registered voters.
  • Submission of citizenship proof documents for electors registered after 2003.
  • Publication of draft electoral rolls based on submitted forms.
  • Period for filing claims and objections.
  • Verification and disposal of claims and objections by Electoral Registration Officers (ERO).
  • Publication of final roll, completed on September 30.

Supreme Court Involvement

The SIR process was challenged in the Supreme Court, which permitted Aadhaar as one of the identity documents to be submitted with enumeration forms.

Guidelines and Political Context

• The EC plans to conduct SIR nationwide, aligned with state election schedules.
• The Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 (RER), outlines the forms and guidelines for electoral roll applications.
• While there are political debates concerning the SIR's execution, its purpose is to ensure clean electoral rolls for fair elections.

Civic Responsibilities

• Citizens should verify published draft rolls and complete necessary forms, including: 
  • New voters and those who have migrated should submit relevant forms.
• Political parties and civil society are encouraged to assist marginalized groups in the process.

The participation and accurate documentation in the SIR process are crucial for maintaining a democratic election system. The inclusion of Aadhaar as an identity proof is expected to continue in future revisions.