Sikkim BJP backs EC clarification on SIR, rejects opposition allegations
The Sikkim unit of the BJP on September 28 backed the Election Commission’s recent clarification on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and rejected allegations of manipulation and malpractice raised by the Congress and other opposition parties.
BJP spokesperson Pasang Gyali Sherpa said the Election Commission’s joint statement had cleared several “misleading narratives” surrounding the electoral process and the SIR exercise.
Sherpa said the poll panel had made it clear that major decisions, including the SIR, were taken with the unanimous approval of the full Commission.
He also said the EC had clarified that its communication to the Cabinet Secretary was related to an internal administrative matter concerning an officer on deputation and had no connection with the Commission’s policy, IT division or the SIR exercise.
On the legal provisions related to the revision of electoral rolls, Sherpa said the declaration attached to Form-6 for the SIR had been examined and upheld by the Supreme Court. He added that the statutory procedures under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, would continue to apply to revisions outside the SIR process.
Sherpa also pointed to steps announced by the EC to improve voter participation. These include special outreach camps for labourers, homeless people and residents of night shelters, along with door-to-door visits by Booth Level Officers to collect forms and help eligible voters enrol.
Sikkim SIR process
Speaking about the SIR exercise in Sikkim, Sherpa said all recognised political parties had been asked to nominate Booth Level Agents and BLA-2 representatives for every polling booth.
He said their involvement would help in verifying electoral details and allow recognised political parties to assist Booth Level Officers during the revision process.
Sherpa rejected allegations that the BJP had manipulated or interfered in the exercise, calling the charges “completely baseless and devoid of factual foundation”.
He said allegations against the electoral process should be backed by evidence and cautioned against making claims that could affect public confidence in the system.
The BJP spokesperson also appealed to political parties and other stakeholders to respect democratic institutions and follow established legal procedures. He said political discussions on the issue should be based on verified facts.
“The poll panel’s clarification provides important factual context,” Sherpa said, while urging all stakeholders to respect constitutional institutions and established legal procedures.
[11:08 am, 29/9/2026] Tarmin Baa(Jio): Sikkim BJP backs EC on SIR, dis