Over 13 Crore Names Dropped in SIR: How to Get Back on the Voter List

More than 13 crore names have been removed from draft voter lists during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) carried out across 30 states and Union Territories. For those who find themselves missing from the rolls, the Election Commission has set out a clear route back through applications for inclusion.

Approaching the electoral office

The process begins with the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) for the applicant's area, who is responsible for handling inclusion requests. People left out during the revision can apply through continuous updation, meaning applications may continue even after the SIR exercise has concluded.

Applicants should ask the local election office which form applies to their situation. The Commission's guidance refers to Form 6 for the inclusion of omitted voters. During the SIR period, an attached declaration applies, a requirement that has been upheld by the Supreme Court. Outside that window, the forms prescribed under the Registration of Electors Rules govern such applications.

Special enrolment drive

State and district election officials, along with registration officers, have been directed to launch a special enrolment drive immediately. The drive is meant to help those left out as well as other eligible applicants.

If you have received a notice

Anyone who received a notice during the ongoing revision should check what it concerns. Special arrangements cover notices relating to missing links with earlier rolls or inconsistencies in records. In these cases, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will visit homes to collect documents and upload them on ECINet for the ERO to decide.

People covered by such notices do not need to routinely visit registration offices for hearings. The ERO may call a hearing only in exceptional circumstances, and such hearings should preferably be held online. If needed, an applicant can authorise an adult family member to attend on their behalf.

Support for vulnerable groups

Additional assistance is available to people living in night shelters, homeless persons, labourers and the poor. District Election Officers must set up sufficient help desks or special camps where needed, giving these groups another point of contact for enrolment help.

State-specific deadlines

Timelines differ by state, and applicants should note that filing deadlines and decision deadlines are separate. In Delhi, claims and objections can be submitted until 30 October 2026, while officials have until 30 November 2026 to dispose of notices and claims. In Maharashtra, claims and objections may be filed until 12 October 2026, with disposal of notices and claims due by 10 November 2026.

In Goa, BLOs are visiting omitted voters to collect forms. Of 97 such voters, 81 had submitted Form 6 for inclusion.