Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar announced on Monday that the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists will commence in 12 states and union territories, including Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Goa, Puducherry, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Lakshadweep.
During a press conference, the CEC was questioned about the absence of Assam from the list, despite the state having assembly elections next year.
Read more: 'Last Time Was 21 Years Ago...', Why SIR Is Essential, Election Commission Lists Four Reasons
Why No SIR in Assam?
In response, Gyanesh Kumar explained, 'Questions were raised about Assam. As you all know, the Indian Citizenship Act has specific provisions for Assam. Furthermore, the Supreme Court is overseeing the completion of citizenship verification there.'
He stated that the SIR order, effective from June 24 for the entire country, does not apply to Assam. Separate revision orders will be issued for Assam.
Read more: SIR to Begin in 12 States Including UP, Bengal Tomorrow, Major Election Commission Announcement
'I Salute the Voters of Bihar'
Addressing the press conference, Gyanesh Kumar extended congratulations to the voters of Bihar and saluted the 75 million voters who actively participated and made the event a success. The commission met with election officials from all 36 states and discussed the process in detail.
He revealed that the first phase of SIR took place in Bihar, involving over 90,000 polling stations and successfully concluded without any appeals. He noted, 'The participation of Bihar's voters has been exemplary, setting a standard for other states.'
