Shillong, Sep 29: With the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process winding down in Meghalaya, what is remarkable about a process that has been so controversial in other states is how only a few voters have so far been found to be ineligible in this state.
According to figures by the Election Department today, 5,90,784 hearings have been completed, which is 90.65 per cent of the 6,51,735 notices generated.
So far, however, only 910 electors have been found ineligible for the final roll after due process, which is a mere 0.15 per cent. This is interesting in a state where the fear of illegal migration is so prevalent – either the fear has been overblown or there are illegal migrants living here but they are under the radar and have not tried to assume Indian citizenship.
The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Meghalaya, BDR Tiwari, today reviewed the progress of SIR 2026 with various officials via video conference. A separate meeting was held with recognised national and state political parties.
The CEO directed officials to ensure timely disposal of remaining cases with fair opportunity to electors. Only in exceptional cases will hearings be required, preferably online. Electors may also authorise any adult family member to attend hearing on his/her behalf. Tiwari also directed strengthening of online hearing facilities to help senior citizens, persons with disabilities and those facing difficulty in travelling.
Officials have been directed to set up help desks and special camps for persons in night shelters, labourers, economically disadvantaged, homeless and other vulnerable sections.
