The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced an extension for filing claims and objections related to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Delhi and Maharashtra. This decision follows specific requests from the Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) of both regions, aiming to provide more time for citizens to ensure their inclusion and accuracy in the voter lists.
New Deadlines for Delhi and Maharashtra Voters
For voters in Delhi, the revised deadline for submitting claims and objections is now October 30, 2026. The ECI has also extended the period for the disposal of these claims and objections, setting a new deadline of November 30, 2026.
In Maharashtra, citizens have until October 12, 2026, to file their claims and objections. The corresponding deadline for the disposal of these applications has been extended to November 10, 2026.
What if Your Name is Missing?
The ECI has clarified that even if names were missed during the initial SIR process, eligible voters can still apply for inclusion in the electoral rolls through a continuous updation mechanism. This facility is crucial for young and first-time voters who may have recently become eligible. Chief Electoral Officers, District Election Officers, and Electoral Registration Officers have been instructed to launch special drives to enroll such electors promptly.
Streamlined Process for Notice Recipients
Significant changes have also been introduced for individuals who receive notices due to being classified as 'unmapped' or having 'logical discrepancies' in the voter list. Instead of requiring these voters to visit an Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) or Assistant ERO office, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will now conduct home visits. During these visits, BLOs will collect necessary documents and upload them directly to the ECINet system for review by the Electoral Registration Officer.
Hearings will now be reserved for exceptional circumstances, as determined by the ERO, and will preferably be conducted online. Furthermore, an adult family member can be authorized by the elector to attend a hearing on their behalf if required, making the process more accessible.
Support for Vulnerable Groups
District election authorities have been directed to establish dedicated help desks and organize special camps. These initiatives are specifically designed to assist vulnerable populations, including individuals living in night shelters, laborers, economically disadvantaged citizens, and homeless persons, ensuring they have equal opportunity to register and verify their voter details.
The ECI noted that the Special Intensive Revision process has already been successfully completed in 20 States and Union Territories, including Bihar and West Bengal. The final count of electors for the remaining 12 states under Phase III will be announced following their respective final publications.