EC to Begin SIR from States with Assembly Elections in 2026

The Election Commission of India (EC) conducted a voter list verification process in Bihar between June 25 and July 26, where the details of approximately 30 million voters were verified. Now, the Commission plans to launch the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) — essentially a large-scale voter list verification — across the country in phases.

According to officials speaking to news agency PTI, the first phase of SIR will begin in states scheduled for assembly elections in 2026. These include Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.

The objective of SIR is to update the electoral rolls and eliminate ineligible voters, such as foreign nationals, deceased individuals, or those who have relocated. Through this process, the Election Commission ensures the voter list remains accurate and current.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar announced on October 6 that preparations for SIR are ongoing across all states. However, the final decision on the official rollout will be taken by the full Election Commission.

CEC Kumar, during the Bihar SIR launch on June 24, also revealed the broader plan for a nationwide SIR. The three election commissioners will meet to finalize the dates for launching SIR in other states.