The ECI extends SIR deadline for the ongoing revision of electoral rolls in 12 states and Union Territories by a week. This move comes amid concerns from the Opposition that the previous timelines were making it difficult for voters and officials. However, the poll panel stated that the extension aims to ensure full transparency.
In a statement, the EC announced that the distribution of enumeration forms will now continue until December 11, instead of the earlier deadline of December 4. The draft electoral rolls published on December 16, rather than December 9. The period for filing claims and objections extended to January 15, 2026. The final voters’ list will now released on February 14, instead of February 7.
ECI extends SIR deadline by week
“An additional week is given for sharing details of absent, shifted, dead, and duplicate electors by the BLOs (Booth-Level Officers) with the BLAs (Booth-Level Agents) before preparing the draft rolls to ensure full transparency,” a poll panel official said.
On October 27, the panel announced the start of the second phase of the SIR in nine states and three UTs, covering nearly half of India’s electorate. This phase includes the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. Among these, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and West Bengal will have Assembly elections in 2026.
Opposition criticized poll panel
The Opposition criticised the poll panel over the revised schedule and claim that it showed the ECI extends SIR deadline and launched the process without proper preparation and at the direction of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav said that a one-week extension was insufficient. He added that BLOs felt pressured to meet deadlines, which was impacting their physical and mental well-being.