Bhubaneswar, Aug 18: After a gap of 24 years, Odisha is set to conduct a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of its electoral rolls, starting next month.

The announcement was made by Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) RS Gopalan, who emphasized the importance of accurate voter data and public trust in the electoral process.

The SIR aims to ensure a clean and updated voter list by identifying discrepancies, removing ineligible entries, and verifying new additions. The final verification of the revised electoral rolls is scheduled for January 7, marking a significant milestone in the state’s electoral preparations.

Gopalan urged political parties to refrain from making baseless allegations that could undermine the credibility of the Election Commission and erode public trust. He stressed that the Commission is committed to transparency and fairness, and any concerns should be raised through proper channels.

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As part of the revision process, the number of polling booths across the state will also be increased to accommodate growing voter participation and ensure smoother electoral operations. This expansion is expected to improve accessibility and reduce overcrowding during elections.

The CEO highlighted that the SIR will be conducted with strict adherence to guidelines, and citizens are encouraged to actively participate by verifying their details and reporting any inaccuracies. The initiative is seen as a crucial step toward strengthening democratic processes in Odisha.