ECI Approves Nationwide SIR Order, BLOs to Collect Voter Documents from Homes

The Election Commission of India (ECI) confirmed that the SIR order received unanimous approval across all states and union territories, marking a coordinated step toward updating voter rolls. Under the order, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will be tasked with visiting voters' residences to collect identity and address documents, aiming to streamline verification ahead of upcoming elections. The ECI said the initiative is part of its broader effort to ensure the accuracy of electoral rolls and to facilitate easier enrollment, especially for first‑time voters and those who have relocated. The commission emphasized that the document collection will be conducted with due respect for privacy and that voters will be informed of the required paperwork in advance. No specific timeline was disclosed, but the ECI indicated that the rollout will commence shortly, covering urban and rural areas alike.