The Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld the Election Commission of India’s authority to conduct the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, ruling that the exercise does not violate constitutional or statutory provisions. The verdict marks a major legal endorsement of the voter verification exercise that had triggered significant political and legal debate over the past year.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi observed that the SIR exercise was aimed at ensuring “accurate and inclusive electoral roll” preparation and said it “breathes life into the Constitution.” The court further noted that the Election Commission had acted within its legal framework and that the process could not be termed “ultra vires.”
Addressing multiple petitions challenging the legality of the exercise, the court framed four central questions, including whether the revision aligned with constitutional mandates and whether adequate safeguards existed to protect citizens’ rights. The bench concluded that the process maintained “a fair balance” between electoral integrity and constitutional protections.
“The process, as ultimately unfolded, provided multiple avenues for participation, correction and redress,” the court stated in its order.
