Relevance: GS-2 (Election Commission, Federal Issues); Source: Supreme Court observations, news reports

Context

Kerala sought permission to use the Statement of Identity and Residence (SIR) for verifying migrants and addressing duplication in electoral rolls. The Supreme Court said the request is reasonable and should be examined by the Election Commission.

What is SIR? 

The Statement of Identity and Residence is a document used by State agencies to confirm a person’s identity and address, especially for migrant or mobile populations.
Its use in electoral roll management aims to improve accuracy and reduce fraudulent entries.

Issues Raised

• High migration leads to duplicate or inaccurate entries in voter lists.
• Existing verification mechanisms struggle with frequent address changes.
• Need to balance data verification with voter privacy and autonomy.
• Operational ambiguity on whether States can assist the Election Commission in verification.

Way Ahead (As Indicated by SC)

• Election Commission should examine Kerala’s proposal on merit.
• Develop clear guidelines for using additional identity-verification tools.
• Ensure safeguards to protect privacy and non-discrimination.
• Strengthen coordination between States and the Election Commission for clean and inclusive electoral rolls.

Q. With reference to electoral roll management in India, consider the following:

1. The Election Commission prepares electoral rolls under the Representation of the People Act.
2. States can propose additional verification mechanisms, but final approval rests with the Election Commission.
3. The Statement of Identity and Residence is a statutory document under Article 324 of the Constitution.

Which of the above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)