New Delhi, Oct 23 (UNI) The Election Commission of India today concluded a crucial two-day Conference of Chief Electoral Officers (CEOs) at the India International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Management (IIIDEM), New Delhi.
The event marked a significant milestone in gearing up for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls ahead of the 2026 State Assembly elections. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi, led the proceedings, bringing together CEOs from all States and union Territories to finalize preparations ensuring voter lists are comprehensive, accurate, and inclusive.
CEC Kumar emphasized the importance of the conference, stating, “This is not merely a routine exercise but a recommitment to strengthening the very foundation of our democracy through meticulous management of electoral rolls. Accuracy and inclusiveness are paramount, and we expect full preparedness from every State and UT.”
Building on detailed reviews conducted in September, the conference closely examined progress in reconciling current voter data with the last SIR, focusing on data integrity and minimizing discrepancies.
Senior Commission officials clarified procedural queries raised by CEOs, aiming to streamline the revision process. Training and deployment of crucial election personnel—District Election Officers (DEOs), Electoral Registration Officers (EROs), Assistant EROs, Booth Level Officers (BLOs), and Booth Level Assistants (BLAs)—were evaluated, recognizing their vital role in ensuring the smooth conduct of SIR. Election Commissioner Sukhbir Singh Sandhu highlighted, “The dedication and competence of our electoral workforce are essential to maintaining the credibility of elections. Proper training and deployment bolster public trust in the democratic process.”
Beyond group discussions, the ECI held focused one-on-one meetings with CEOs from poll-bound states, including Assam, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and West Bengal, providing tailored guidance to meet region-specific challenges.
As India approaches critical electoral phases, the Commission’s unwavering focus on transparency, coordination, and exhaustive preparation promises to safeguard the right to vote for every eligible citizen. This conference underscores the ECI’s steadfast commitment to electoral integrity, reinforcing its role as the vigilant guardian of India’s vibrant democracy.
