Election Commission launches voter roll revision across 17 Indian states

The Election Commission of India has begun a Special Summary Revision (SSR) of voter rolls across 17 states and union territories, seeking to enhance electoral participation among young and first-time voters. The exercise will be completed before assembly elections scheduled in several key states including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Manipur, and Goa.

The revision process is designed to identify eligible citizens who have attained voting age since the last electoral roll update, ensuring their names are added to the voter register. Officials said the initiative would also help eliminate duplicate entries and remove names of voters who have passed away or relocated, thereby improving the integrity of electoral rolls.

The SSR typically involves a shorter timeline compared to comprehensive revisions, allowing the Election Commission to expedite the inclusion of new voters while maintaining data quality. The move comes as part of the Commission's broader efforts to boost voter participation and ensure that electoral rolls reflect the current eligible electorate.

The drive across multiple states reflects the Election Commission's commitment to maintaining robust electoral infrastructure as India prepares for a series of important state assembly elections in the coming months. Officials are urging eligible citizens to register themselves or update their voter information during the designated period.