Post by : Jyoti Gupta

Photo:PTI

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday clarified that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in Bihar is progressing smoothly, in line with guidelines issued on June 24, 2025. Officials urged citizens to disregard any misinformation or rumours surrounding the process.

The Commission highlighted that only authorised representatives — specifically the official Heads of Political Parties — will be recognised for any communication or meetings. The move comes after conflicting emails were received from unauthorised individuals claiming to speak on behalf of political parties.

In response to the Commission’s invitation for discussions, only the General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation, Dipankar Bhattacharya, and authorised members of CPI(M) have confirmed their attendance. A meeting with ECI officials is scheduled for 5 PM today.

The Commission had issued identical letters to various political parties following an email dated June 30, 2025, asking for verification of authorised participation. However, no confirmation has yet been received from other parties.

Reaffirming its openness, the Commission stated it is ready to meet party heads or their authorised representatives, either individually or together, at any time of mutual convenience.

As part of the revision exercise, nearly 1 lakh trained Booth Level Officers (BLOs) and an equal number of volunteers are currently working under the supervision of 243 Electoral Registration Officers, 38 District Election Officers, 9 Divisional Commissioners, and the Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar.

In parallel, more than 1.5 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs), appointed by recognised national and state political parties, are monitoring the process at the polling station level. The Commission advised parties to increase BLA participation during the revision phase rather than raising objections at a later stage.