An estimated 6.56 crore electors — about 13% of registered voters — have had their names deleted in nine states and three Union territories. In Uttar Pradesh, helmed by the Bharatiya Janata Party, which has been a vocal endorser of the SIR, 2.89 crore names were axed, whittling down the number of voters to 12.55 crore from 15.44 crore. Gujarat, yet another fief of the BJP, has had over 70 lakh names deleted. There, of course, still exist mechanisms for voters to get their names enlisted in the final list after mandated scrutiny. The central motive of the SIR, which takes place periodically, is to ensure the updation of electoral rolls and maintain their integrity such that they are free from the presence of foreigners.

Source: The Telegraph January 09, 2026 01:39 UTC