New Delhi: The Election Commission is facing fresh questions over the delay in the Special Summary Revision (SSR) of electoral rolls, a routine exercise that helps newly eligible voters, including those turning 18, get added to voter lists.
According to a report, the last SSR was conducted in 2024, while the annual revision for 2026-27 has not yet been announced. The report attributed the delay to differences between Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi.
SSR allows eligible citizens to apply for inclusion in electoral rolls based on four qualifying dates — January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1.
The issue has triggered political reactions, with the Congress alleging that the delay could affect the enrolment of young voters ahead of elections in states such as Uttar Pradesh and Goa. The party accused the government and the CEC of deliberately keeping Gen Z voters away from electoral rolls.
The Election Commission has not yet responded specifically to the latest report. It has previously maintained that differences during internal discussions are normal and said decisions taken by the three-member panel were unanimous.
The controversy comes amid wider scrutiny of the Commission following reports of disagreements over electoral-roll revision and related procedures.