Supreme Court strict on Delhi SIR asks EC to reply within two weeks - Latest Key Updates

A significant hearing took place in the Supreme Court on Wednesday regarding the petition challenging the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in Delhi. Taking a stern view of the matter, the Supreme Court posed sharp questions to the Election Commission. The court primarily sought to know why voters who are already included in the 2026 electoral roll are being asked to fill 'Form 6' for registration as new voters, even if they had not filled out the enumeration forms during the Delhi SIR process. Questioning this entire procedure, the apex court directed the Election Commission to file its detailed response within two weeks. This critical question arose after approximately 43 million people were left out of the draft electoral roll due to being categorised as having 'changed residence' or being 'absent'.

Supreme Court questions the use of Form 6

During the hearing, the Supreme Court clearly remarked that 'Form 6' is primarily meant for first-time voters. The court stated that individuals who are already included in the 2026 electoral roll and have merely moved from one place to another should be permitted to use 'Form 8'. Such old and valid voters must not be asked to declare that they were never included in the electoral roll before, while clarifying its stance, the court further noted that staying away from home for a brief period doesn't amount to a permanent relocation of residence. If a citizen stays outside for a month or two for work purposes, it doesn't mean the voter has permanently relocated. The court criticised this administrative anomaly and stressed the need to rectify it.

Logical discrepancy and Election Commission stance

During the proceedings, Justice Bagchi raised a very important question. He asked whether a voter who failed to fill out their form could lose their right to vote forever. He termed this a structural anomaly that needs to be fixed. The Supreme Court firmly stated that until the final electoral roll is prepared, there is no logic in rejecting any form simply because its deadline has passed. Responding to this, the Election Commission assured the court that it would consider accepting registration forms submitted late and would extend the October 30 deadline if necessary.

Clarification on Bihar SIR case and statements

During the hearing of the Delhi SIR case, the Supreme Court also addressed the Bihar SIR matter, while the court clarified that in the Bihar SIR case, it had not made any decision on the issue of logical discrepancy, and it was only permitted as an interim arrangement in West Bengal. The court stated that it has not delivered any ruling on this, yet people cite the Bihar decision and claim that everything has already been settled. Justice Joymalya Bagchi emphasised during the hearing that the Supreme Court has not recognised the logical discrepancy category. All eyes are now set on the Election Commission's upcoming response within two weeks, which will shed light on the future course of action regarding the voting rights of millions in Delhi.