New Delhi, May 27: The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the Election Commission’s authority to conduct the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and stated that the poll body has full powers under Article 324 of the Constitution.
The apex court clarified that the SIR process does not violate any constitutional provisions or existing election laws.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi delivered the verdict on petitions challenging the Election Commission of India’s decision to undertake the Special Intensive Revision of voter lists.
The court had earlier reserved its judgment after hearing extensive arguments from various petitioners and the Election Commission.
Supreme Court backs Election Commission powers
While pronouncing the verdict, the Supreme Court observed that preparing an accurate and comprehensive voter list is essential for strengthening democracy and ensuring free and fair elections.
The court stated that the Special Intensive Revision is a crucial exercise aimed at improving the accuracy, transparency and credibility of the electoral process.
The bench also noted that the Election Commission is constitutionally empowered to supervise and manage electoral rolls under Article 324.
The Supreme Court further observed that the SIR exercise would help remove discrepancies and ensure that eligible voters are properly included in the electoral rolls.
Big relief for Election Commission
With the latest verdict, the Election Commission received major relief as the Supreme Court effectively cleared the way for conducting Special Intensive Revision exercises across the country.
The judgment is expected to strengthen the Election Commission’s administrative powers in preparing updated and error free voter lists before future elections.
Legal experts said the verdict reaffirmed the constitutional authority of the Election Commission in matters related to electoral roll management and election supervision.
The ruling is also likely to influence future legal challenges related to voter list revisions and electoral procedures in the country.
Now you can get the latest stories from Indtoday on Telegram every day. Click the link to subscribe. Click to follow Indtoday’s Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram. For all the latest Hyderabad News updates and Follow us on GoogleNews
