The Election Commission of India has launched the initial phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists in Himachal Pradesh, sparking discussion in political circles.
In a notice dated February 19, 2026, the Commission instructed the Chief Electoral Officer of Himachal Pradesh and officials in other states to complete all groundwork ahead of the SIR, which is scheduled to commence in April 2026. This follows previous directives calling for electoral roll updates across states and Union Territories.
The SIR exercise includes verifying voter records, removing duplicates or ineligible entries, reorganizing polling stations, and enrolling new eligible voters. Authorities said district-level teams will soon be mobilized to ensure the process runs smoothly.
The announcement has generated debate among opposition parties, who have sought clarification on the scope and timing of the exercise and expressed concerns about potential mass deletions. Officials, however, emphasized that the revision is a routine statutory measure to maintain accurate and up-to-date voter lists.
Election authorities stressed that all procedures and safeguards will be followed, ensuring eligible voters have adequate opportunity to verify or update their information. Field officers have been asked to complete preparatory work as soon as possible.
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