ECI Appoints Special Observers to Ensure Fair Electoral Roll Revision in Eight States

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Friday announced the appointment of Special Roll Observers (SROs) to oversee the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in eight states: West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan. The move follows requests from the Chief Electoral Officers of these regions to ensure comprehensive coverage.

SROs have already begun their work and are expected to be present in the states two days a week until the final electoral rolls are published in February 2026. Their role includes ensuring that all eligible voters are included and no ineligible individuals appear on the rolls, maintaining transparency and accuracy throughout the process.

According to the ECI, the SROs will hold meetings with state- and district-level leadership of all national and regional political parties. They will also interact with Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) and District Electoral Officers (DEOs), either physically or virtually, to monitor the revision process and address any challenges promptly.

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The Commission also announced extensions to the enumeration schedule. In Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, enumeration will now conclude by December 14, with draft rolls published on December 19. Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands will continue enumeration until December 18, followed by draft roll publication on December 23.

For Uttar Pradesh, home to India’s largest electorate, enumeration has been extended until December 26, with draft rolls scheduled for release on December 31. The earlier schedule had set December 11 for completion of enumeration and December 16 for draft roll publication, highlighting the need for thoroughness in the largest state.

The ECI clarified that the extended schedule aims to ensure complete and accurate coverage while accommodating administrative requests from state authorities. The appointment of SROs is intended to strengthen oversight, making the electoral roll revision process smooth, participatory, and transparent for all eligible voters.

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