Over 60% of 33 lakh SIR cases in Delhi disposed of, shows CEO data

In Delhi, over 60% of the 20 lakh electoral cases — a total of more than 12.6 lakh notices — have been resolved, according to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) data. The final electoral rolls for Delhi are set to be published by December 4, with the deadline being revised multiple times. The process of disposing notices and objections initially moved slowly, with only 4 lakh notices resolved in the first 30 days after the draft rolls were published on August 31.

However, the pace significantly increased in the following 12 days, with approximately 16 lakh notices disposed, averaging around 1.33 lakh notices per day.

The 20 lakh resolved notices encompass both verified cases and rejections. The CEO's office in Delhi has launched a proactive campaign, attributing the accelerated resolution to relaxed procedures, additional officials, and strict targets for Booth-Level Officers (BLOs). Before the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls commenced on June 30, Delhi had 1.45 crore electors. Out of these, 97.5 lakh were included in the draft electoral roll published on August 31.

After verification, around 33.1 lakh electors — nearly 34% of the draft roll — received notices requesting proof to be included in the final roll. Initially, electors flagged for discrepancies had to visit the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) with one of 13 prescribed documents to resolve their notices. However, the ECI relaxed the process, allowing BLOs to collect documents from electors' homes and enabling family members to appear on their behalf in online hearings.

As of September 30, EROs can now approve electors without conducting a hearing, requiring only a letter from the BLO confirming the elector's details.

To facilitate the disposal of notices, special camps have been organized every weekend, targeting vulnerable groups such as the homeless, those displaced due to demolitions, the transgender community, and sex workers. Awareness campaigns through hoardings, radio jingles, advertisements, and announcements on the Delhi Metro are also being conducted.

Several CEOs of other states and Union Territories have echoed Delhi's efforts, emphasizing a proactive campaign and special camps to ensure no eligible voter is left out of the electoral roll.