Why Did ECI Extend Kerala's SIR Exercise Deadlines?
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Synopsis
The ECI has extended the SIR exercise deadlines in Kerala by a week, accommodating the state's request amid ongoing local elections. This extension follows a Supreme Court directive, ensuring a thorough electoral roll revision process. Citizens will soon have a month to file claims and objections, with the final roll due in February 2026.
Key Takeaways
- ECI extends SIR deadlines by a week.
- Supreme Court directive influenced the decision.
- The enumeration phase now ends on December 18, 2025.
- Draft electoral roll publication set for December 23, 2025.
- Claims and objections can be filed from December 23, 2025, to January 22, 2026.
New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced a one-week extension for the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Kerala. This decision comes in response to a request from the state government and a directive issued by the Supreme Court earlier this week.
This information was communicated to the Chief Secretary of Kerala through an official letter from the ECI, which included a revised schedule for the SIR process in the state.
On December 2, the Supreme Court allowed the Kerala government, following a petition from IUML leader P.K. Kunhalikutty, to propose additional time for completing the enumeration phase.
The apex court directed the Election Commission to consider the request in a manner that is both objective and sympathetic.
In response, the Kerala government submitted a request to the ECI on December 3, citing ongoing local body elections which impact the availability of political party workers for SIR-related activities and slow down the enumeration process.
The ECI conducted a meeting with the Chief Secretary and the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Kerala to assess the state's request and the progress of the revision exercise. The CEO reported that over 95% of the enumeration forms have been digitized, with full digitization expected to be completed by December 11. Additionally, BLO-BLA meetings are currently being held across districts and are scheduled to conclude on December 7.
The draft electoral roll is set to be published on December 16, allowing citizens a full month—from December 16 to January 15—to file claims and objections regarding any inaccuracies in the roll.
However, the Chief Secretary emphasized that due to local body elections, political party workers are preoccupied, impacting their participation in SIR activities, leading to a request for a one-week extension.
After reviewing the situation, the ECI has revised the SIR timeline specifically for Kerala, extending the enumeration period until December 18.
Furthermore, the rationalization and updating of polling stations and control tables will also be finalized by December 18. The new date for the publication of the draft electoral roll is December 23, with the claims and objections period now scheduled from December 23, 2025, to January 22, 2026.
The verification process, including hearings and resolutions on enumeration forms and the handling of claims and objections, will continue until February 14, 2026, with the final electoral roll for Kerala expected to be published on February 21, 2026.
This updated schedule is applicable solely to Kerala, while other states and Union Territories involved in the SIR exercise will adhere to the previously established timeline.
Point of View
The extension of the SIR exercise in Kerala highlights the importance of ensuring a comprehensive electoral roll amidst challenging circumstances. The ECI's responsiveness to the Supreme Court's directive and the state's request reflects a commitment to uphold democratic processes. As the nation progresses toward more inclusive elections, it is vital that electoral mechanisms are both efficient and accessible to all citizens.
NationPress
05/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the SIR exercise in Kerala extended?
The SIR exercise in Kerala was extended by the ECI following a request from the state government and a directive from the Supreme Court, which recognized the need for additional time due to ongoing local elections.
What is the new deadline for the enumeration phase?
The new deadline for the enumeration phase has been extended until December 18, 2025.
When will the draft electoral roll be published?
The draft electoral roll is scheduled to be published on December 23, 2025.
What is the claims and objections period?
The claims and objections period will run from December 23, 2025, to January 22, 2026.
When will the final electoral roll be published?
The final electoral roll for Kerala is expected to be published on February 21, 2026.
