Sir vs SR: The Special Intensive Revision process is currently going on in 12 states and union territories across India. The purpose of this effort of the Election Commission of India is to ensure that the voter roll is accurate, transparent and free from mistakes. In the meantime, let us know what is the difference between Special Intensive Revision and Special Revision.
What is special intensive revision
Special Intensive Revision is a complete end-to-end process. Instead of relying on old voter lists, the Election Commission actually reconstructs the voter rolls through new data collection. Under this method, booth level officers conduct door-to-door surveys and also fill new counting forms for each household. The details of each voter are collected again so that errors accumulated over time can be eliminated.
This method is usually adopted when there is a significant discrepancy in the existing list. Also when there are major administrative or demographic changes. States like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal have used this method to ensure maximum accuracy.
what is special revision
Special Revision is an updating and correction process rather than a complete reconstruction. In this process the administration depends on the existing electoral database. Booth Level Officers work in their booth areas with pre-filled water registers containing the names of already registered voters. Instead of recounting everything, they verify the details and make changes only where discrepancies are found.
The purpose of this process is not to completely recreate the list but only to improve and update it. This method takes less time and is often used when only periodic corrections are needed.
What checks are done in both the processes
In both these processes, some verification checks are necessary to maintain the integrity of the voter list. The first step is to confirm whether the voter actually resides at the registered address or not. If a person has shifted permanently then the process of removing or transferring his name is started.
The names of dead people are identified and removed. This prevents misuse of water rolls and reduces the possibility of fraudulent voting. Along with this, spelling mistakes in the name, gender, father’s or spouse’s name or mismatch of photographs are corrected. These changes are verified with documents like Aadhaar card, birth certificate or other official identity proof. This system ensures that a person is not registered in two different polling booths or constituencies.
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