Dissent reports rock EC; full panel meets, reiterates SIR decisions were unanimous

NEW DELHI: The Election Commission held a special meeting amid reports that the other two Election Commissioners had recorded dissent over aspects of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The three-member Election Commission discussed the objections raised by the commissioners and took decisions on them. The meeting also discussed complaints related to the SIR process.

The Commission clarified that there would be no change to the SIR-related declaration accompanying Form 6. Outside the SIR period, the existing Form 6 would continue to be used for enrolling new voters. Those who have been left out of the electoral rolls in states where the SIR has been completed can still apply for inclusion, the Election Commission said. Special enrolment drives will also be launched for this purpose.

The deadline for filing claims and objections to the draft electoral roll in Delhi has been extended to October 30. The Commission also reiterated in its press note that the decisions related to the SIR exercise had the approval of the full Commission.