Suspense continues in Telangana over the SIR process.

Hyderabad, Odisha has adopted the ‘Panchanama’ model to resolve discrepancies emerging during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists. In this process, mapping errors in the voter list are being verified and corrected by obtaining signatures from local residents.

Under this model, collective verification is conducted at the local level to authentically correct errors in voter records. However, it is unclear whether Telangana will adopt the same model in the upcoming phase or use an alternative procedure.

Classification of Voters and Potential Procedure in Telangana

Under the proposed SIR process in Telangana, voters are likely to be divided into three categories:

1. Fully mapped voters
2. Voters mapped with discrepancies
3. Unmapped voters

Voters whose records correctly match their parents or close relatives (such as father, mother, grandparents) will not require additional documents. However, if any logical discrepancy is found after mapping, such voters will be placed in the ‘discrepancy category’ and may be asked for additional verification documents.

Meanwhile, voters with no mapping record will need to provide proof of identity and relationships based on documents listed by the Election Commission.

Telangana’s Process May Differ from Odisha and Other States’ Models

In Odisha, the discrepancies found primarily involve age-related errors, such as:

• Age difference between parents and voter being less than 15 years or more than 50 years
• Age difference with grandparents being less than 40 years
• Multiple voters incorrectly mapped to the same old record

In such cases, Odisha is adopting the ‘Panchanama’ process, while some states, including Uttar Pradesh, have used a document-based verification method. In these procedures, voters were asked for documents clearly showing their names along with those of their parents or grandparents to confirm family relationships.

Preparation for SIR in Telangana Ongoing, Process Likely to Start from June 15

There is no final clarity yet regarding the SIR process in Telangana, but it is believed that the Odisha model may be used as a basis. Recently, a team from the Election Commission studied the procedure adopted in Odisha.

In a video conference organized by the Chief Electoral Officer, GHMC, district administration, EROs, and other officials participated to review preparations related to SIR. According to sources, the SIR process in the state may begin from June 15, after which Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will conduct door-to-door surveys and verification work starting June 25. However, the final method for resolving discrepancies is still unclear, and a final decision will be made by the Election Commission.