The upcoming Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, scheduled for next week, is set to bring a positive change for voters in 12 states and union territories by increasing the number of polling stations. This move is specifically designed to shorten the queues voters often face on election day.
Bihar has already set a precedent, becoming the first state in the country to complete its voter list clean-up exercise. Following this revision, every polling station in Bihar now accommodates a maximum of 1,200 electors, a reduction from the previous limit of 1,500. This rationalization is expected to be replicated in the 12 other states and UTs undergoing the SIR exercise.
As a result of this rationalization, these 12 states and UTs will see a higher number of polling stations. Bihar, for instance, has already seen its total number of polling stations rise from 77,895 to 90,712. This increase in polling stations is anticipated to significantly reduce the time voters spend waiting for their turn to cast their vote.
The Election Commission has issued instructions to the Chief Electoral Officers of the participating states and UTs, mandating the setup of new polling stations in various locations. These include high-rise buildings, residential colonies with active resident welfare associations, and slum clusters, ensuring greater accessibility.
Furthermore, District Election Officers are directed to consult with political parties regarding the establishment of these new polling stations. The Election Commission has also emphasized the importance of keeping family members together at the same polling station to ensure a smoother process for all voters.
The states and Union Territories that will be undertaking the SIR exercise are: the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
The Election Commission has been actively working to improve voter experience, with a focus on ensuring that voters do not have to travel more than 2 km to reach their designated polling station, wherever feasible. In recent elections, polling stations have also been strategically set up in high-rise buildings and societies to encourage higher voter participation.