The Supreme Court of India on Thursday upheld the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) decision to carry out a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in Bihar, ahead of the upcoming assembly elections scheduled for October–November this year.

A two-judge bench comprising Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Joymalya Bagchi heard multiple petitions that challenged the ECI’s move. After considering arguments from all sides, the court stated that the revision is constitutionally mandated and aligns with the poll body’s duties under the Indian Constitution.

The ECI, in its defence, emphasized that the revision is not without precedent, citing that the last such exercise took place in 2003. The court agreed, observing that the update of electoral rolls is an essential democratic process to ensure free and fair elections.

The ruling is a significant endorsement of the Election Commission’s autonomy and responsibility to maintain accurate and updated voter lists, especially in the run-up to crucial state elections.