The Election Commission of India on Sunday extended the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) schedule by a week in 12 States and Union Territories. With this development, voters will now have more time to ensure their names are correctly included in the electoral rolls ahead of upcoming elections.
As per the updated schedule, the qualifying date for voter enrolment has been pushed to January 1, 2026, offering eligible voters more time to register. The final electoral roll, originally set for release on February 7, 2026, will now be published on February 14, 2026, a move that allows extra time for verification and data consolidation.
The enumeration period itself will continue until December 11, aligning with the day set for rationalising and rearranging polling stations to better accommodate voters.
Following enumeration, the Election Commission will update the Control Table and prepare the draft electoral roll on December 12, with the draft list going public by December 16.
Voters and concerned parties will have an extended window from December 16 to January 15, 2026, to file claims and objections. Simultaneously, the Election Roll Officers (EROs) will manage notices, hearings, verifications, and resolve claims between December 16 and February 7.
The electoral rolls will undergo a thorough check on February 10, 2026, to ensure completeness and accuracy. After securing the Commission’s approval, the final roll will be published on February 14.
2nd Phase Covers 12 States/UTs After Bihar’s 1st Phase Completion
This latest SIR phase involves Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. Bihar’s successful first phase paved the way for this expanded revision effort.
The deadline extensions come amid mounting criticism from opposition parties, who have raised questions over the pace of the voter revision drive. Concerns have also been voiced about the reported deaths of 26 Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during the process in various states.
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav criticized the pressure on Election Commission employees, asking pointedly: “What is the hurry?”
In response to these concerns, the ECI previously doubled payment for BLOs from Rs 6,000 to Rs 12,000. The remuneration for BLO Supervisors involved in electoral roll updates was also increased from Rs 12,000 to Rs 18,000, aiming to improve welfare and motivate officials amid the demanding revision work.