Why is the SIR period for electoral rolls in Puducherry, Goa, Lakshadweep, Rajasthan, and Bengal Extended?
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has made a significant move by extending the timeline for the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in key regions, allowing voters more time to ensure their details are accurate. This decision aims to promote inclusion and transparency ahead of the 2026 assembly elections. Find out more about the implications of this extension.
Key Takeaways
- Deadline extended to January 19, 2026, for filing claims and objections.
- Encourages inclusivity for all eligible voters.
- Voters can use Form 6 for submissions.
- Ensures transparency in the electoral process.
- Part of a nationwide effort ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.
New Delhi, Jan 15 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced an extension to the timeline for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Puducherry, Goa, Lakshadweep, Rajasthan, and West Bengal. The deadline for submitting claims and objections has now been set to January 19, 2026, as per a notification.
This decision, communicated through a letter on Thursday, comes in response to requests from Chief Electoral Officers, taking into account various factors aimed at ensuring the comprehensive inclusion of eligible voters.
The notification, directed to the Chief Electoral Officers in these states and union territories, refers to a previous letter dated December 27, 2025, which detailed the SIR schedule with January 1, 2026 as the qualifying date.
This extension specifically pertains to the period for filing claims and objections, granting voters additional time to verify their information, submit inclusions via Form 6 with necessary declarations, or raise objections.
The ECI has ordered the immediate publication of the notification in the extraordinary issue of the State Gazettes and instructed that three copies be sent for the Commission's records.
Chief Electoral Officers are tasked with ensuring broad dissemination of this extension through all available channels, such as media, BLOs, and online platforms including the voters.eci.gov.in portal and the ECINet app.
All relevant officials must comply with the revised schedule to uphold transparency and accuracy in the electoral process.
This SIR initiative is part of a nationwide effort to update voter lists ahead of the 2026 assembly elections in various states, including West Bengal and Puducherry. The goal is to ensure that every eligible citizen is included while removing ineligible entries due to factors such as migration, deaths, duplicates, or other discrepancies.
Previous revisions had adjusted enumeration periods (ending December 11, 2025, for most of these states) and the draft roll publication (on December 16, 2025), with final rolls expected by February 2026.
Eligible new voters, especially first-timers, are encouraged to submit Form 6 promptly to Booth Level Officers or via online means. Political parties and civil society organizations have welcomed this measure, highlighting that it provides additional safeguards against errors in the verification process.
Point of View
I believe that the Election Commission's extension of the SIR period is a commendable step towards ensuring that every eligible voter can participate in the democratic process. This move not only highlights the ECI's commitment to transparency but also addresses the concerns of voters who may have faced challenges in the initial timeline. It is imperative that all stakeholders, including political parties and civil society, work together to maximize voter participation in the upcoming elections.
NationPress
15/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SIR period?
The SIR period refers to the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, a process aimed at updating and verifying voter lists to ensure accurate representation during elections.
Why was the deadline extended?
The deadline was extended to allow more time for eligible voters to verify their details, file claims, and raise objections, thereby promoting inclusivity.
How can new voters apply?
New voters can submit their applications using Form 6 either online or in person to their respective Booth Level Officers.
Who benefits from this extension?
This extension primarily benefits eligible voters, including first-time voters, by ensuring they have ample opportunity to participate in the electoral process.
What should voters do next?
Voters should check their details on the electoral roll and file any necessary claims or objections before the new deadline.
