The Election Commission of India has responded to widespread concerns by extending crucial deadlines for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists across the country. This decision comes after significant pressure from political parties and citizens alike who expressed difficulties in meeting the original timeline.
Revised Timeline for Voter List Revision
According to the fresh directives issued by the commission, the distribution of SIR forms will now continue until December 11, providing additional time for both officials and citizens. The publication of the draft voter list has been rescheduled to December 16, while the final electoral roll will be released on February 14.
This marks a significant shift from the earlier schedule that required form distribution to be completed by December 4, draft list publication by December 9, and the final list by February 7. The extension offers a much-needed breathing space for all stakeholders involved in the electoral process.
Political Pressure Leads to Deadline Extension
The Commission's decision didn't emerge in isolation. Nationwide protests had been mounting against the pressure to complete SIR procedures hastily. Political parties from Kerala had been particularly vocal in demanding an extension from the very beginning, especially with local body elections approaching.
During a crucial meeting with Chief Electoral Officer Rathan Kelkar, political party representatives highlighted the practical challenges of completing form distribution and publishing the draft list simultaneously with local body elections. The first phase of these local body elections is scheduled for December 9, which would have coincided with the original draft list publication date.
Relief for Booth Level Officers and Voters
The extension brings substantial relief to Booth Level Officers (BLOs) who have been working under tremendous pressure due to insufficient time for form distribution and digitization procedures. These frontline election officials now have an additional week to complete their responsibilities effectively.
Political unity emerged on this issue, with Congress, CPM, and BJP all supporting the demand for extension. The Congress and CPM had formally demanded an extension of SIR procedures in Kerala, while the BJP stated they had no objections to the extended timeline.
The Election Commission took this proactive step even as petitions demanding the extension were under consideration by the Supreme Court. The Commission has committed to informing the Supreme Court about the deadline extension when the case comes up for hearing.
This decision assumes greater significance given the reported incidents of BLOs facing extreme stress, with tragic cases of suicide reported in several states due to the pressure of completing SIR procedures within tight deadlines.
