ECI Unveils Phase 3 Timeline for Nationwide Electoral Roll Revision Across 19 Regions

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially rolled out the roadmap for the third phase of its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) campaign aimed at updating electoral rolls across the country. The latest phase will cover 16 States and 3 Union Territories as part of the large-scale voter verification and correction exercise.

According to the Commission, the scheduling of Phase 3 has been planned in coordination with the ongoing Census-related house listing operations, since both activities rely on overlapping field-level administrative staff and infrastructure.

With the completion of this phase, almost the entire nation will come under the SIR process. However, the exercise will temporarily exclude Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. The poll body clarified that a separate timetable for these regions will be issued later, keeping in mind weather-related logistical challenges in hilly areas.

The Special Intensive Revision is considered a crucial exercise ahead of upcoming elections, as it helps ensure electoral rolls remain accurate, updated, and free from duplication or outdated entries. Officials believe the drive will strengthen transparency and improve voter participation by ensuring eligible citizens are properly registered.

The Election Commission has also directed local election authorities to streamline the verification process and ensure smooth coordination with Census teams to avoid administrative overlap.