New Delhi, October 15: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced a Special Summary Revision (SSR) of electoral rolls in 17 states and Union Territories, with January 1, 2027, set as the qualifying date. The exercise aims to update voter lists, include eligible citizens, correct errors and remove duplicate or ineligible entries in accordance with established procedures.

The announcement comes amid growing attention surrounding the Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, which involves more extensive verification of electoral rolls.

What Is Special Summary Revision?

Special Summary Revision is a process through which existing electoral rolls are updated. It enables eligible citizens who have reached voting age to register as voters and allows registered voters to correct errors in their personal details or address.

The exercise also provides a mechanism for identifying duplicate entries and removing the names of deceased or otherwise ineligible individuals after due verification.

According to the announced schedule, draft electoral rolls are expected to be published on November 12, 2026. The period for filing claims and objections will continue until December 11, while the final electoral rolls are scheduled for publication on January 4, 2027.

How Is SSR Different From SIR?

While both exercises aim to maintain accurate electoral rolls, their procedures differ in scope and intensity.

SSR primarily focuses on updating existing voter lists through applications, corrections, claims and objections, along with prescribed verification. In contrast, Special Intensive Revision involves a more comprehensive verification process, which may include house-to-house visits and detailed scrutiny of voter records.

The Election Commission undertakes SIR when specifically directed, whereas summary revisions generally form part of the regular electoral-roll maintenance process. Both exercises can result in the addition, correction or deletion of entries, subject to applicable legal safeguards.

Which States Are Covered?

The announced exercise covers Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and West Bengal. The Union Territories included are Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep and Puducherry.

Separate schedules for other states and Union Territories are expected to be announced as applicable.

What Should Voters Do?

The Election Commission has advised voters to check their names on the electoral rolls and submit the relevant forms for registration, corrections or objections. Form 6 is used for new voter registration, Form 8 for corrections and updates, and Form 7 for objections or requests for deletion where applicable.

The revision is intended to improve the accuracy of electoral rolls and ensure that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to exercise their voting rights.

The Commission’s key objective is to maintain reliable voter lists while ensuring that eligible voters are not unfairly excluded.

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