Election Commission of India’s Guidelines for Special Intensive Revision (SIR), 2002 Voter List, and Acceptable Documents

The Systematic Voter Registration, which is named Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process is a key initiative by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to ensure that every eligible citizen of India is registered as a voter. The process aims to maintain a current, accurate, and inclusive voter list, which is essential for the smooth functioning of elections across the country. Below are the key guidelines, implementation strategies, and documents related to the SIR process, including the use of the 2002 voter list and eligible documents.

2002 Voter List as a Reference in SIR

The 2002 voter list is one of the foundational references used by the Election Commission to verify and update voter registrations. It plays a significant role in identifying individuals who were registered voters during that year, helping authorities cross-check names, eliminate duplicates, and ensure that those who are eligible to vote are included in the current voter list.

This list is particularly useful for:

• Identifying long-term voters: The 2002 list provides a historical reference for identifying individuals who were registered in previous elections. It helps authorities ensure that no eligible voters are missed in the current electoral rolls.

• Cross-verification: Voter registration data from the 2002 list is cross-checked with current details to ensure the accuracy of the voter rolls, enabling authorities to detect any discrepancies.

• Updating voter information: The 2002 list is used as a base for eliminating ineligible names (e.g., deceased persons or those who have moved away) and adding eligible new voters.

• Resolving disputes: In case of disputes regarding voter eligibility, the 2002 voter list serves as an important reference to settle such issues.

SIR Process and Implementation

The Systematic Voter Registration (SIR) process is aimed at the continuous updating of voter lists, ensuring that:

• Eligible voters are added to the rolls.

• Ineligible voters (e.g., deceased persons, non-residents, etc.) are removed.

• The voter list is accurate, complete, and free from duplication.

The implementation of SIR involves:

• Door-to-door surveys: Electoral authorities conduct surveys to register eligible voters at the grassroots level.

• Verification of existing entries: Current voters are cross-verified with official documents to confirm their identity and eligibility.

• Public display of electoral rolls: After updates, the revised voter lists are displayed publicly for feedback, ensuring transparency in the process.

• Special campaigns: Targeted campaigns are launched to register young voters, promote voter awareness, and encourage the inclusion of marginalized communities.

The Election Commission of India uses multiple channels, including digital platforms, to facilitate voter registration. The registration process can be initiated online through the National Voter Service Portal (NVSP), where eligible citizens can apply for voter registration, verify their details, and make corrections if necessary.

12 Eligible Documents for Voter Registration under SIR

To ensure that the voter rolls are inclusive and to help verify the eligibility of applicants, the Election Commission of India has approved a list of 12 acceptable documents that can be used for identity, residence, and age verification during the SIR process. These documents are categorized to verify the identity, residence, and age of the voter, ensuring that only eligible citizens are included in the voter list.

The 12 documents accepted by the Election Commission include:

1. Passport
   A valid and current passport serves as proof of identity and citizenship.

2. Aadhaar Card
   The Aadhaar card, issued by the UIDAI, is a widely accepted document for verifying both identity and residence.

3. Driving License
   A valid driving license provides proof of identity and often includes an address, thus serving as a proof of residence as well.

4. PAN Card
   The Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is primarily used as an identity document.

5. Ration Card
   Government-issued ration cards can be used to verify both identity and address.

6. Government Service/Employer ID
   An ID card issued by a government agency or a recognized employer can serve as proof of identity.

7. Bank/Post Office Passbook
   A passbook issued by a bank or post office, with a photograph, is valid for identity verification and can also confirm the applicant’s address.

8. Voter ID Card (EPIC)
   The existing Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) can be used to verify a voter’s identity if they are already registered.

9. Smart Card issued by Health Insurance
   A smart card issued by a recognized health insurance provider can be used to verify identity.

10. Official School/College ID
    An identity card issued by a recognized educational institution serves as proof of identity, especially for younger voters.

11. Utility Bills (Electricity, Water, Telephone)
    A recent utility bill in the applicant's name (no older than 3 months) can be used as a proof of residence.

12. Property Documents (Lease Agreement, Sale Deed)
    Official property documents showing ownership or lease can serve as proof of residence.

Rules and Regulations for SIR Implementation

To ensure smooth implementation of the SIR process, the Election Commission of India has established the following rules and regulations:

• Eligibility: The applicant must be an Indian citizen, at least 18 years old on the qualifying date, and residing within the jurisdiction of the relevant constituency.

• Documents Submission: Voters are required to submit one of the acceptable documents mentioned above as proof of their identity, age, and residence. In cases where voters do not possess these documents, local authorities may allow the submission of affidavits or alternative proof.

• Verification Process: All new voter registrations are subject to a verification process where documents are scrutinized, and the details provided are cross-checked with existing records.

• Public Display of Rolls: Revised electoral rolls, incorporating new registrations and corrections, are publicly displayed for review, giving the public an opportunity to file objections or suggest corrections.

• Continuous Updates: The voter list is regularly updated, especially during election years, with new registrations, deletions, and corrections being implemented as part of the continuous updating process.

Conclusion

The Systematic Voter Registration (SIR) process is critical to ensuring that the electoral system remains accurate and accessible to all eligible voters. By using the 2002 voter list as a reference and accepting a variety of eligible documents for verification, the Election Commission of India ensures a fair and transparent voter registration process. These steps are designed to enhance the integrity of the electoral rolls, improve voter participation, and ensure that no eligible voter is excluded from the democratic process.