Questions Over SIR Refuse to End: Understanding the Political Angle Behind the Growing Confusion

The controversy surrounding the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) continues to intensify. A delegation of TMC MPs recently approached the Election Commission, raising serious concerns over the fairness and transparency of the ongoing process. With upcoming assembly elections in several states, the political temperature around SIR is steadily rising.

The Expanding Controversy

The second phase of SIR has become a major flashpoint. Opposition leaders, particularly from the Trinamool Congress, believe that the process lacks clarity and objectivity. Their apprehensions, if left unaddressed, could deepen mistrust at a time when electoral credibility is crucial.

A Key Election Issue

The ongoing revision covers 12 states and Union Territories, including Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal—all of which are headed toward assembly elections next year. During the recent Bihar assembly polls, the Opposition had already used SIR as a major campaign plank. Experts suggest that the issue is likely to dominate the discourse in the upcoming elections as well.

The Political Dimension

The political undertone of the complaints cannot be ignored. In West Bengal, where a fierce contest between the BJP and TMC is expected, the stakes are particularly high. TMC has directly questioned the rationale and integrity of the Commission’s actions, seeking clarity from the Chief Election Commissioner.

Lingering Doubts

A major point of confusion persists:
Is SIR linked to determining citizenship?

Despite the Supreme Court clearly stating during hearings that SIR pertains only to voter identity verification, not citizenship, doubts at the grassroots level continue to exist. These misinterpretations are especially sensitive in border states, where citizenship-related tensions are historically high. It is essential for the Election Commission to ensure that the distinction between electoral verification and citizenship status is communicated unambiguously at all levels.

Pressure on Ground-Level Staff

Another alarming issue relates to the heavy workload on Booth Level Officers (BLOs). Reports suggest that work pressure has led to extreme distress among many BLOs, with some tragic cases of suicide being reported. Several BLOs in West Bengal have taken to the streets in protest, prompting leaders such as Mamata Banerjee and Akhilesh Yadav to voice their support. This matter demands sensitivity and must be addressed as a human, not merely administrative, concern.

The Way Forward

The relevance of SIR and the authority of the Election Commission remain unquestioned—this has been reiterated even by the Supreme Court. However, ensuring transparency and responding to Opposition concerns must be a top priority for the Commission. Ignoring these apprehensions could risk weakening the very credibility that SIR aims to strengthen.

At a time when elections are approaching across multiple states, SIR should reinforce public trust in the electoral process—not erode it. The Election Commission must step forward with clear communication, effective grievance redressal, and a humane approach to frontline staff to ensure that the process remains robust, credible, and beyond doubt.