The District Election Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner, UT Chandigarh Sh. Nishant Kumar Yadav today chaired a meeting to review and accelerate preparations for the upcoming Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the Electoral Roll in 01-Chandigarh Parliamentary Constituency, in compliance with directions issued by the Election Commission of India.
The SIR is scheduled to commence from April 2026. Expressing serious concern over the timelines and the need for a flawless electoral database, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized that any delay or inaccuracy at this stage will directly impact the integrity of the electoral roll. He directed all officers to treat the preparatory work as a matter of utmost priority and ensure time-bound, error-free completion.
Underscoring the importance of an inclusive and transparent electoral process, the Deputy Commissioner stated that “a clean, updated and authentic electoral roll is the foundation of free and fair elections, and there can be no compromise on its quality.”
Key directions issued during the meeting:
• Elector Mapping: Noting that mapping stands at 71% (as on 16.03.2026), the Deputy Commissioner expressed concern and directed all AEROs to achieve 100% mapping immediately without exception.
• Disposal of Forms: All pending forms must be cleared within 2–3 days, with strict monitoring at each level.
• Data Quality Drive: A special campaign to eliminate gibberish entries and non-standard photographs is to be completed on priority.
• Polling Station Rationalization: AEROs have been directed to submit proposals within 2–3 days, ensuring better accessibility and voter convenience.
• Manpower Deployment: Adequate manpower and volunteers will be arranged by the Nodal Officer (Manpower). All requirements must be submitted immediately.
• Capacity Building: A comprehensive training programme for EROs, AEROs, BLOs, BLO Supervisors and BLAs will be conducted shortly to ensure uniform understanding and execution.
• Material Readiness: All essential materials are available; however, any additional requirement must be flagged without delay. Printing of Enumeration Forms will be coordinated through the Nodal Officer (Material Management).
• SVEEP & Awareness: A robust SVEEP Plan is to be rolled out immediately, with special emphasis on digital outreach tools such as ECINET, Voter Helpline 1950, and “Book a Call with BLO” facility.
• Media & Outreach Strategy: A comprehensive communication plan involving banners, posters, radio jingles, SMS campaigns and advertisements will be launched shortly.
• Social Media Monitoring: The Deputy Commissioner expressed concern over misinformation and directed strict vigilance and prompt action against fake or misleading content. The social media team will be strengthened for regular dissemination of authentic information.
• 24×7 Support Systems: The State Contact Centre (1950) and BLO Help Desk will function round-the-clock during the SIR period to provide seamless assistance.
The District Election Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner made a strong appeal to the citizens of Chandigarh, highlighting that public participation is critical for the success of SIR. Citizens are urged to:
• Verify and update their voter details
• Ensure correct photograph and address
• Report duplicate, shifted or deceased entries
• Use digital facilities such as ECINET App, Voter Helpline 1950, and “Book a Call with BLO”
For assistance, citizens may contact the State Contact Centre at 1950 (24×7) or reach out to their respective Booth Level Officer (BLO).
Reiterating his concern, the Deputy Commissioner appealed to all stakeholders—including political parties, media and citizens—to extend full cooperation and support, stating that the credibility of the electoral process depends on collective responsibility and timely action.