Overview
The third phase of the SIR has removed more than 6 crore names from draft voter lists. The exercise covers 16 states and 3 union territories, with final rolls expected from September 6, 2026.
Key Developments
- Draft rolls published for all states except Nagaland (Sept 20) and Tripura (Oct 21).
- Out of 36.08 crore names on existing rolls, 29.93 crore are retained; 6.15 crore (≈17.04%) are deleted.
- Delhi shows the highest deletion percentage (32.78%); Maharashtra records the largest absolute deletion (2.06 crore, 21.15%).
- Chief Ministers of Karnataka and Telangana have written to the CEC demanding an extension of the claims window.
Important Facts
The ECI allows a public window for objections, additions, and new registrations before finalising the rolls. The first states to publish final lists are Mizoram, Sikkim, and Manipur on September 6.
State‑wise deletion highlights:
- Delhi: 47,56,722 names removed (32.78%).
- Maharashtra: 2.06 crore names removed (21.15%).
- Karnataka: 1.07 crore deletions (second highest absolute).
- Telangana: 73,39,235 deletions.
- Lowest deletions: Sikkim (37,724) and Mizoram (46,162).
In Assam, a “special revision” was carried out instead of SIR due to the legal framework of the NRC.
Exam Relevance
The SIR exercise tests the functioning of India’s democratic institutions. Understanding the role of the ECI, the legal basis for voter list revision, and the political reactions of state governments is essential for GS‑2 (Polity) and GS‑1 (Historical evolution of electoral reforms). The scale of deletions also raises questions about data accuracy, citizen rights, and the balance between clean rolls and disenfranchisement – topics relevant to GS‑4 (Ethics) and GS‑3 (Socio‑economic issues).
Way Forward
After the objection window closes, the draft rolls will be finalised into official voter lists. States yet to undergo SIR – Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh – will be scheduled post‑census Phase II, considering weather constraints. Aspirants should monitor court judgments, especially the Supreme Court’s affirmation of SIR’s constitutional validity, and track any policy adjustments announced by the CEC in response to state‑level concerns.
For UPSC preparation, focus on:
- Legal framework governing electoral roll revisions.
- Institutional checks and balances between the ECI and state governments.
- Impact of large‑scale voter deletions on democratic participation.
Staying updated on the final roll publication dates and any subsequent policy changes will aid answer writing in both prelims and mains.