Uttar Pradesh is currently undergoing a major electoral roll update through the SIR – Special Intensive Revision program. This drive aims to verify, correct, and update the voter list across all districts. The process includes door-to-door surveys, checking voter eligibility, and collecting forms from households.
However, this year’s SIR has drawn major attention due to several developments—both administrative and concerning.
1. Deadline Extended to 11 December 2025
Initially planned to conclude on 4 December, the Election Commission extended the SIR deadline by one week.
Reason: slow progress in several districts, digitization backlog, and heavy workload on BLOs (Booth Level Officers).
The extension aims to reduce pressure on field officers and ensure accurate voter data.
2. Progress So Far: 48% Forms Digitized
By the latest update:
- 48% of voter forms have been digitized in Uttar Pradesh
- Many districts are still verifying ground-level data
- BLOs are collecting Form-6, 7, 8, and 8A for additions, corrections, and deletions
The Election Commission has asked districts to increase support for BLOs to improve progress without compromising accuracy.
3. Rising Concerns: Stress, Fatigue & BLO Deaths
The biggest controversy in the UP SIR drive has been the health crisis among BLOs.
In the last 10–12 days:
- 10 deaths have been reported among personnel involved in SIR duties
- Causes include:
- Heart attacks
- Brain haemorrhage
- Extreme stress and long working hours
- Alleged pressure to meet deadlines
- At least one reported case of attempted suicide linked to SIR workload
Families of the deceased and employee unions are demanding:
- Proper work-hours
- Better monitoring
- Mental health support
- Compensation for affected families
This human-impact angle has created a serious debate around the execution of SIR.
4. Official Response: Election Commission Issues Fresh Guidelines
Following backlash and media coverage, the Election Commission issued fresh directives:
- Avoid unnecessary pressure on BLOs
- Provide technical & staff support for data entry
- Encourage timely completion without overburdening officers
- Ensure proper monitoring and rest breaks
The goal is to ensure that SIR continues smoothly without compromising the health of field staff.
5. What Citizens Should Do During SIR
If you’re a resident of Uttar Pradesh, here’s what you must do:
✔ Submit your voter-related forms on time
- Form-6 → New voter addition
- Form-7 → Deletion
- Form-8 → Correction
- Form-8A → Transfer within constituency
✔ Keep your documents ready
- Aadhaar
- Age proof (10th certificate or birth certificate)
- Address proof
✔ Cooperate with BLOs
They are handling heavy workloads—your cooperation helps reduce pressure and avoid errors.
6. Why SIR Matters
SIR ensures:
- Removal of duplicate or deceased voters
- Addition of new voters (18+ youth)
- Correction of old or incorrect voter details
- Fair and transparent electoral rolls ahead of upcoming elections
Accurate voter lists strengthen democracy—and affect every future election in UP.
Conclusion
The SIR drive in Uttar Pradesh is one of the most significant electoral exercises of 2025. While progress is underway, the stress on ground workers and recent fatalities raise critical concerns. The deadline extension and new guidelines show that authorities are responding, but more systemic support is needed.
For citizens, the best contribution is simple:
✔ Submit forms on time
✔ Provide correct information
✔ Cooperate with BLOs
This ensures a clean, updated, and fair voter list for upcoming elections.
