Election Commission Defends SIR Rollout, Says Key Decisions Were Unanimous

The Election Commission has pushed back against suggestions of internal discord over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, stating that its key decisions were taken unanimously even as it acknowledged that differing views among commissioners are normal.

The poll panel's response followed a political row triggered by a media report that highlighted objections raised by two Election Commissioners over several decisions taken during the rollout of the SIR exercise.

The Commission did not dispute that dissenting opinions were recorded, but emphasised that such differences are a routine part of decision-making and do not undermine the collective nature of the decisions that were ultimately adopted.

The SIR of electoral rolls has been a contentious exercise, with opposition parties raising questions about its conduct and impact. The latest exchange adds to the scrutiny surrounding the process.

The Election Commission's statement sought to project institutional unity, maintaining that the decisions central to the SIR rollout were arrived at collectively and unanimously.