SC Upholds EC Authority To Conduct SIR, Signals Oversight
The Election Commission of India (EC) has been affirmed by the Supreme Court of India (SC) to have both statutory and constitutional authority to carry out the nationwide Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The Court stressed it will not put a stay on the SIR process, signalling support for updating voter lists.
Court Offers Corrective Oversight If Irregularities Arise
While backing EC’s move, the Court said it will intervene if any “irregularities or flaws” in the SIR process are reported. This statement underscores that the exercise must remain transparent and fair, and that the judiciary will act as a safeguard against potential errors.
State-Level Challenges Segregated for Separate Hearings
The Court separated petitions challenging SIR in specific states from those questioning the national validity of the exercise. It has asked the EC, state election bodies, and relevant state governments to respond. The state-specific pleas — like those from West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala — will be heard on separate dates, allowing the Court to address unique local concerns.
What This Means For Indian Elections
The judgement reaffirms that electoral rolls can be revised through SIR under EC’s discretion, giving a legal green signal for the ongoing nationwide revision. At the same time, the Court’s commitment to oversight aims to reassure citizens and political parties that changes will be subject to judicial scrutiny if needed.
