Karnataka Sir: Name Missing From Voter List After SIR? How to Check and Apply Through Form 6

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has directed states that have completed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls to identify eligible voters whose names may have been wrongly deleted and help them re-enrol through Form 6.

Under the October 1 directive, Booth Level Officers (BLOs) will compare the revised electoral rolls with previous records and conduct house-to-house surveys to identify eligible voters who are missing. The exercise is expected to be completed in about a month, with each BLO tasked with covering 20 to 25 voters every week.

However, the drive will not cover voters in West Bengal whose appeals are pending before appellate tribunals, as these cases are under adjudication.

How to Check If Your Name Is Missing From the Voter List

Voters can check their enrolment status online through the Election Commission's official portal.

• Visit voters.eci.gov.in or use the Voter Helpline app.
• Search for your name using your EPIC number or personal details.
• If your name is missing, check the deletion list published for your polling booth, where available.
• Verify the reason for deletion and follow the applicable procedure to restore your name.

How to Apply Through Form 6

Eligible voters whose names are missing from the electoral roll can apply for inclusion through Form 6.
Applicants can submit the form online through the ECI portal or Voter Helpline app. They can also submit a physical application through their BLO or the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO).

Applicants should provide the required supporting documents, retain the acknowledgement number and attend verification or hearings if called by the ERO. The application status can be tracked online.

Form 6 is used for the inclusion of names, while Form 8 is meant for correcting or updating details of voters whose names are already on the electoral roll. Form 8 cannot be used to add a missing name.

What If Your Application Is Rejected?

Voters whose applications are rejected can appeal under Section 24 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.

The first appeal can be filed before the District Magistrate or Collector within 15 days of the decision. If the voter is dissatisfied with the outcome, a second appeal can be made to the Chief Electoral Officer, subject to the prescribed procedure and fee.

In West Bengal, voters whose cases are pending before appellate tribunals must follow the tribunal process and check the latest instructions issued by the state CEO.

What Voters Should Know

The Election Commission has introduced four qualifying dates for voter registration: January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1, allowing eligible citizens to apply for enrolment at different points during the year.

The SIR exercise has sparked controversy over large-scale deletions. The Opposition has claimed that around 13.8 crore voters were removed across 31 states and Union Territories. In Bihar, approximately 65 lakh names were deleted from a roll of 7.89 crore, with around three lakh subsequently added back during the claims and objections process.

Voters who find their names missing should check the reason for deletion, submit the appropriate application and follow the deadlines applicable in their state. They should refer to official ECI notifications and their respective state CEO websites for the latest requirements.