CRI Calls on Religious to Stand Against Disenfranchisement in SIR Exercise

NEW DELHI, October 8, 2026: The Conference of Religious India (CRI) has urged religious communities across the country to speak out against what it described as the alleged large-scale manipulation of electoral rolls and the disenfranchisement of legitimate voters through the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

In a strongly worded appeal titled “SIR and Disenfranchisement: CRI Standing Up for Truth and Justice,” the national body representing religious communities said the developments surrounding the electoral revision should “touch the conscience and shock the sensitivities” of every citizen.

The CRI alleged that the SIR exercise and its consequences had resulted in hundreds of thousands of legitimate voters being excluded from electoral rolls, describing the situation as a possible violation of citizens’ constitutional rights.

“CRI cannot be silent spectators to what is unfolding in our country,” the statement said, linking its appeal to the Christian responsibility to stand for truth and justice and to bear witness to the person and message of Jesus.

The organisation said an emerging national response involving Gen Z, Opposition political parties and civil society groups was significant and urged religious communities to join the effort.

The CRI called on Religious of India, individually and collectively, along with their collaborators, to participate in national campaigns, particularly those scheduled for October 10, and in subsequent campaigns on the issue.

It urged religious communities to express their solidarity “visibly and vocally, without fear or favour” in defence of constitutional rights, particularly the right to free and fair elections.

The appeal was signed by CRI National President Fr Saju Chackalackal CMI and Vice Presidents Bro. Santhosh CSC and Sr Maria Nirmalini AC.

The intervention comes amid a growing national debate over the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls and concerns raised by political parties and civil society groups about the possible exclusion of eligible voters from the electoral process.

By Catholic Connect Reporter