The Election Commission of India recently concluded the first phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Odisha, resulting in the deletion of over 20 lakh names from the state’s voter list. Published on July 5, 2026, the draft report revealed that the total number of registered voters in Odisha dropped from 3,33,99,591 to 3,13,87,034. This significant reduction sparked immediate reactions from political parties and civil society groups, particularly the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), which contested the accuracy of the numbers and accused the Election Commission of excluding a larger number of eligible voters.
The SIR process, aimed at updating and verifying electoral rolls, involved extensive door-to-door verification across all 30 districts of Odisha. According to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Odisha, R.S. Gopalan, the majority of the deletions were attributed to deceased individuals, permanent migration, and duplicate registrations. Specifically, 8.32 lakh names were removed due to death, 10.07 lakh because of absence or relocation, and 1.58 lakh due to duplicate enrollments. Additionally, around 14,000 names were excluded for failing to submit necessary forms. These figures represent a decline of approximately 20.14 lakh voters, marking a notable shift in the state’s electorate.
The SIR process was supported by a vast network of officials, including 147 Electoral Registration Officers, 994 Assistant Electoral Registration Officers, 4,540 Booth Level Supervisors, and 84,594 Booth Level Agents (BLAs) appointed by recognized political parties. These agents played a crucial role in verifying the authenticity of the voter information and ensuring transparency throughout the process. The involvement of political party representatives underscored the collaborative nature of the initiative, although it also highlighted potential tensions over the outcomes.
The Biju Janata Dal, led by Vice President Debi Prasad Mishra, challenged the findings of the SIR, arguing that the number of excluded voters was significantly higher than officially acknowledged. Mishra pointed out inconsistencies in the data, noting that the initial voter count was listed as 3.40 crore in 2025, yet the current draft report shows a much lower figure. He contended that the discrepancy suggested that the actual number of excluded voters could be closer to 27 lakh, raising concerns about the inclusivity and fairness of the revision process. Mishra further emphasized that in certain assembly constituencies, up to 50,000 electors were flagged as anomalies, suggesting a need for further clarification and adjustment.
The Election Commission maintained that the deletions were based on verified records and that the process adhered strictly to established guidelines. Any affected elector could challenge the deletion by submitting claims and objections through designated Booth Level Officers or via online platforms until August 4, 2026. The final electoral roll is scheduled to be published on September 6, 2026, following a review period that extends until September 2. During this time, the Commission will assess all appeals and make necessary adjustments to ensure that no eligible voter is inadvertently excluded.
Political analysts note that the SIR process in Odisha reflects broader national efforts to modernize and streamline electoral roll management. Similar exercises have taken place in other states, including Manipur, Mizoram, and Sikkim, where comparable reductions in voter counts have occurred. In Manipur, over 1.5 lakh voters were removed, while in Sikkim, nearly 37,000 names were deleted. These figures highlight the challenges of maintaining accurate and up-to-date electoral records, especially in regions experiencing high levels of migration and demographic change.
The SIR process has also drawn attention to the importance of transparency and community engagement in electoral reforms. The Election Commission has emphasized that the process is designed to be participatory and inclusive, ensuring that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to verify their enrollment status. Public access to the draft electoral rolls and the ability to file claims online have been critical components of this effort. However, critics argue that the complexity of the process may lead to confusion and exclusion, particularly among marginalized communities and younger voters.
Moving forward, the Election Commission will continue to monitor the claims and objections received during the specified period. The final publication of the electoral rolls will serve as a pivotal moment in the democratic process, determining the eligibility of millions of voters for upcoming elections. As the political landscape in Odisha remains dynamic, the outcome of this SIR phase will likely influence future electoral strategies and policies, underscoring the ongoing dialogue between governance and civic participation.
9 reports
The HinduIndependentProgressiveFactual 98Objective 958 days agoTwenty-three opposition parties in India have jointly written to the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, accusing the Election Commission of 'biased' conduct. They highlighted concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process conducted in states like West Bengal and Bihar, as well as similar exercises elsewhere. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), though not part of the INDIA bloc, also signed the letter. The decision to send the memorandum came after an INDIA bloc meeting in Delhi on June 8, called by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee following her party's loss in state elections. While the bloc did not agree to a proposed visit to West Bengal, they opted to send the letter to the judiciary instead. The Supreme Court previously ruled in favor of the SIR process in Bihar, deeming it constitutional and within the Election Commission's authority.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the Election Commission's actions as 'biased' and presents the opposition's perspective without balancing it with the Supreme Court's ruling that validated the SIR process. It emphasizes the opposition's accusations and omits direct counterpoints from the Election Commission or aν
Why these scores (Factual 98 · Objective 95): Exact replica of primary source material. Fully accurate and neutral in presentation.
The HinduIndependentCenterFactual 98Objective 9510 days ago SIR: Kurnool ERO urges voters to cooperateThe Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) for the Kurnool Assembly constituency and KMC Commissioner Challa Obulesu urged voters to cooperate with the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process conducted by the Election Commission of India. He emphasized that no eligible voter's registration would be deleted and asked voters to prepare necessary documents like two passport-sized photos, a Voter ID card, Aadhaar card, or other government-issued IDs. Obulesu also encouraged Booth Level Agents (BLAs) to assist Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in expediting tasks such as filling out enumeration forms and verifying voter identities. During his inspection of polling stations, he reiterated the importance of completing the SIR process efficiently in one phase.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a neutral account of an electoral officer's appeal to voters regarding the SIR process. There is no evident ideological framing, loaded language, or one-sided sourcing. The content focuses on procedural guidance and cooperation, without showing preference for any political side.
Why these scores (Factual 98 · Objective 95): Directly quotes primary source content accurately. Very neutral and balanced in presenting the situation.
The HinduIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 903 days ago 20 lakh names deleted after SIR Phase I in OdishaOver 20 lakh names were removed from Odisha's voter list following the first phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, according to a draft report released by the Election Commission on July 5, 2026. The total number of electors decreased from 3,33,99,591 to 3,13,87,034, with deletions primarily due to deaths, migration, absence, and duplicate enrollments. The report noted high participation in the SIR process, with over 93% of electors submitting enumeration forms. The Election Commission emphasized transparency and inclusivity, allowing affected individuals to file appeals through a structured process. The final electoral roll is scheduled for publication on September 6, 2026.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the SIR process and its outcomes without overtly favoring any political party or ideology. It focuses on procedural updates and statistical data rather than taking a stance on political implications. While the topic relates to electoral processes, which
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): Highly factual with detailed statistics on voter deletions in Odisha. Objective presentation of data without overt bias.
Hindustan TimesIndependentCenterFactual 92Objective 883 days agoOdisha's draft electoral rolls, published after a month-long special intensive revision (SIR) exercise, have removed approximately 20.14 million names, reducing the electorate from 33.3 million to 31.3 million. The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) attributed the deletions to deaths, migration, and duplicate enrollments, while the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) alleges that over 2.7 million eligible voters were excluded and demands a revised list. The BJD claims the drop is larger than officially acknowledged, citing discrepancies between initial registration numbers and the current draft. Voters can challenge exclusions until August 4, with final rolls expected by September 6.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both the official stance of the Chief Electoral Officer and the allegations from the Biju Janata Dal, providing balanced coverage of the controversy surrounding the electoral roll revisions. It does not overtly favor one side over the other, though it includes quotes from both B
Why these scores (Factual 92 · Objective 88): Factual reporting on voter deletions in Odisha. Mentions BJD allegations but presents them alongside official figures, maintaining balance.
Scroll.inIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 859 days agoTwenty-three opposition parties in India have written to Chief Justice Surya Kant expressing concerns over the special intensive revision of electoral rolls conducted by the Election Commission. They allege that this process is being 'manipulated' by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and that the Election Commission is acting 'biasedly.' The letter was signed by several major opposition parties, including the Trinamool Congress, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, and Aam Aadmi Party, as well as an independent MP. The opposition claims that the revision of voter lists undermines democratic processes and could lead to 'vote loot' and 'stealing of elections.' Scroll.in previously analyzed West Bengal election results and found that in many constituencies where the BJP won, the number of voter deletions exceeded their victory margins. By early April, approximately 91 lakh voters had been removed from the electoral rolls, with around 34 lakh appeals still pending before tribunals. In late May, the Supreme Court upheld the legality of the voter roll revisions but clarified that the Election Commission cannot determine citizenship status.
Bias read (Progressive): The article presents allegations from opposition parties against the ruling BJP and the Election Commission, suggesting collusion to manipulate electoral outcomes. While it includes some data from Scroll.in's analysis, the framing emphasizes the opposition's claims of bias and manipulation, with a l
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): Accurate on the letter sending but includes analytical interpretations of election results. Slight bias in framing allegations against BJP.
Times of IndiaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 759 days agoThe Election Commission of India has launched a special intensive revision (SIR) drive in four states—Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Jharkhand—as well as Meghalaya, to verify and update electoral rolls. Booth Level Officers (BLOs) are conducting house-to-house visits between June 30 and July 29 to distribute and collect enumeration forms from existing voters. The goal is to ensure only eligible citizens are on the electoral rolls. Voters are required to fill out the forms, either in person or online via the Election Commission’s portal, and provide details from the last SIR. Draft electoral rolls will be published on August 5, allowing time for claims and objections before the final version is released on October 7.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual overview of the SIR process without overtly favoring any political side. It explains the procedure neutrally, citing the Election Commission's actions and providing information directly from the process itself. There is no evident ideological framing or biased language
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): Contains some factual elements but includes speculative claims about BJP manipulation. Less objective with charged language.
India TodayIndependentCenteryesterdayIn Odisha, India, approximately 2.01 million voters were removed from the draft electoral roll following a door-to-door verification process conducted between May 30 and June 28. The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) revealed significant deletions, particularly in migration-prone districts like Malkangiri, which saw 27,653 names struck off—representing 10.96% of its electorate. The overall electorate in the state dropped from 33,399,591 to 31,387,034. Reasons cited for the deletions include deceased voters, individuals who had moved or were absent during verification, duplicate enrollments, and failure to submit enumeration forms. The Election Commission emphasized that affected voters could still apply for inclusion during the claims and objections period. The opposition BJD and Congress have raised concerns about the scale of deletions and called for greater transparency.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual data on voter deletions and includes quotes from both the Election Commission and political parties. It provides balanced information without overtly favoring any side, focusing on the process and responses rather than taking a stance.
The PrintIndependentCenteryesterdayThe headline reports that the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), the ruling party in Odisha, plans to initiate a statewide campaign concerning inaccuracies found in the state's school textbooks. The article suggests that these errors have prompted significant concern and action from the party leadership. While the content is brief, it indicates a potential political move related to educational content oversight.
Bias read (Center): The article presents information about a political party's planned action regarding textbook errors without overtly favoring one side or another. It does not include explicit ideological slant or emphasize particular viewpoints beyond the stated actions of the BJD.
Scroll.inIndependentCenter3 days ago SIR: Over 22 lakh names removed from draft voter lists of four statesThe Election Commission of India published draft electoral rolls for four states—Odisha, Manipur, Mizoram, and Sikkim—as part of a special intensive revision (SIR) exercise. Over 22 lakh names were removed from the voter lists, accounting for approximately 6.1% of the previous total electorate. In Odisha, more than 20 lakh names were deleted, with reasons including deaths, migration, absence, and duplicate registrations. Manipur saw over 1.5 lakh deletions, while Mizoram had the lowest deletion rate at 5.2%. Sikkim removed 37,000 names, representing 8% of its prior voter base. Officials stated that affected individuals can challenge the removals until August 4, with final rolls expected by September 6.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the SIR process and the removal of names from electoral rolls without overtly favoring any political ideology. It reports on the numbers and reasons for deletions across different states, citing official figures and statements from Chief Electoral Offic
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €5/month.
Become a Supporter
India
