BJP DEFENDS ELECTION COMMISSION AMID SIR CONTROVERSY

September 24, 2026

NEW DELHI: The BJP has defended the Election Commission amid a political controversy over reported differences among its members regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said the reported exchanges between the three Election Commissioners demonstrated that the poll panel had engaged in internal discussion and consultation. He described such deliberations as part of the democratic functioning of a constitutional institution.

The comments followed a report that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had raised objections on at least 14 occasions over 10 months concerning various decisions and administrative measures linked to electoral-roll revision. The Election Commission has said that internal notes, queries and differing views are normal and maintained that its final decisions, including those concerning SIR, were unanimous.

Opposition parties have challenged the Commission's handling of the SIR process and demanded action against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The BJP has rejected the allegations and accused the Opposition of attempting to discredit constitutional institutions.