THE HINDU DATED 22ND JANUARY 2026

Summary of Important News Items and Editorials-81

THE HINDU DATED 22ND JANUARY 2026.

1. Supreme Court on EC’s discretion during Special Intensive Revision (SIR)
The Supreme Court clarified that while the Election Commission (EC) enjoys wide discretionary powers under Article 324 and Section 21(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, such discretion is not absolute or unregulated. The Court observed that deviations during Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls must adhere to principles of natural justice, transparency, and procedures prescribed under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960. The Bench questioned the EC’s expansion of documentary requirements beyond notified norms, stressing that civil rights of existing voters are affected. The logic of the judgment lies in balancing administrative flexibility with constitutional guarantees under Article 14. The Court’s stand reinforces that even high constitutional authorities must operate within rule-bound frameworks. The gist is that electoral integrity requires procedural fairness, recorded reasons for deviation, and strict adherence to statutory safeguards to prevent arbitrary disenfranchisement.