Extension of deadline for Special Intensive Revision of poll roll welcome: councillors

Councillors across the city have welcomed the Election Commission’s decision to extend the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) enumeration period till December 11, saying the revised schedule will ensure fuller voter coverage. Some said the extension will prolong the stress on Booth-Level Officers (BLOs).

With the new schedule, enumeration and polling-station rationalisation will continue till December 11, the draft roll will be published on December 16, and the final electoral roll on February 14, 2026.

Deputy Mayor M. Magesh Kumaar said that although the extension of the enumeration period is welcome, issues remain for residents living in rented houses or those who have temporarily moved elsewhere.

“It is the ruling party that is working on the ground. While inspecting the Saidapet area on Sunday, I found that most of the work had been completed because officials were working to meet the earlier December 4 deadline. Of the 750 forms distributed, 550 have been collected from residents. Now, without haste, the remaining 150 can be completed with ease,” he said. He added that because of the earlier deadline, many officials were unable to attend to routine civic issues, and even the November council meeting could not be held as staff were occupied with SIR-related work.

Meanwhile, Ward 12 councillor V. Kaviganesan said some BLOs want the process to be completed quickly, as the ongoing enumeration keeps them engaged and away from their civic responsibilities. “But Booth Level Agents (BLA) are happy about the extension, as it allows them to ensure all voters are covered, and none are left out due to the earlier urgency,” he added. Many councillors of the ruling party expressed the same opinion.

J. John, AIADMK councillor, commending this move, said in some booths, only 45% to 50% of the forms distributed have been returned with proper details by the voters.

“It is true that BLOs would be stressed. But, during every election, many complain that their names are missing from the voter list. This is due to a lack of awareness among people. SIR will help in bridging this and ensuring all voters are in the final electoral rolls,” he said.