The SIR, which began simultaneously in 12 states and union territories, aims to verify and update voter lists ahead of upcoming assembly elections in states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Puducherry, and West Bengal in 2026. The Election Commission said Booth Level Officers will conduct door-to-door verification till February 7, adding new voters and correcting errors.
TMC leaders claimed the revision process was being conducted “secretly” and could disenfranchise genuine voters. “This is an attempt to tamper with Bengal’s voter list under the BJP’s direction,” a senior TMC functionary said.
The BJP, however, dismissed the allegations. Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari called Mamata’s protest a “Jamaat rally,” accusing her of undermining constitutional institutions. State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said if the Chief Minister had objections, she should approach the Supreme Court instead of “street agitations.”
Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK has filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the SIR, citing concerns over voter verification procedures. The Election Commission told the Madras High Court there was “no reason for apprehension,” assuring that final rolls would be published only after addressing objections.
Around 51 crore voters across the 12 participating states are covered under the current SIR. Officials clarified that Aadhaar will serve only as proof of identity, not citizenship, amid ongoing concerns in Assam over voter eligibility and citizenship verification.
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