- 29 June, 2026
Bengaluru , June 29, 2026: The Archdiocese of Bangalore has appealed to Catholic families across the region to actively participate in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the Electoral Roll, urging them to ensure that their names and details are correctly included in the voters’ list.
In a circular issued on 27th June 2026, Archbishop of Bangalore Fr. Peter Machado highlighted the importance of voting as both a constitutional right and a civic responsibility. He encouraged priests, religious communities and lay faithful to cooperate with the Election Commission of India during the verification process.
The Archbishop stressed that maintaining an accurate electoral roll is essential for protecting citizens’ participation in the democratic process.
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is an exercise conducted by the Election Commission of India to verify and update voter information. The process aims to ensure that electoral records remain accurate and that every eligible citizen can exercise their right to vote.
Through the revision process, authorities will verify existing voter details, include new voters who have reached the age of 18, correct mistakes in names and addresses, and remove duplicate or incorrect entries.
The Archdiocese explained that having a Voter ID card alone does not guarantee the ability to vote if a person’s name is missing from the Electoral Roll. Therefore, families have been encouraged to check their voter details carefully and complete any required corrections.
In his message, Archbishop Peter Machado reminded Catholics that their responsibility extends beyond religious life and includes active participation in society.
He said that Christians are called to contribute towards justice, peace and the common good. Participating responsibly in democratic processes, including voting, is one way of fulfilling this duty.
The circular encouraged Catholic families to ensure that all eligible members, especially young people who have recently turned 18, are registered as voters.
The Archbishop also urged families to assist elderly persons, people with disabilities and others who may find the verification process difficult.
To make the electoral roll revision process smoother, the Archdiocese advised families to keep essential documents ready when Election Commission officials visit homes.
The recommended documents include:
These documents will help officials verify identity, date of birth and residential details during the revision process.
The Archdiocese has called upon parishes to play an active role in helping people complete the electoral roll verification.
Parishes have been encouraged to make announcements during Sunday Masses and share information through parish communication channels. They have also been asked to create SIR Help Desks after Masses with support from parish groups, including the Catholic Women’s Council (CWC), Catholic Association of Bangalore (CAB), Basic Christian Communities (BCCs), Youth Groups and Parish Pastoral Councils (PPCs).
Volunteers have been encouraged to visit homes and support senior citizens, persons with disabilities and others who require assistance.
The circular also requested religious communities to help their members, staff and parents of students understand and complete the process. In addition, parishes have been encouraged to extend support to neighbouring Protestant and other Christian communities.
The Archbishop also urged people to avoid rumours and misinformation regarding the electoral revision process.
Catholic families have been advised to rely only on authentic information provided by the Election Commission and cooperate respectfully with Booth Level Officers (BLOs) during verification.
The Church’s message comes at a time when voter registration and accurate electoral records remain central to ensuring inclusive participation in democracy.
The Archdiocese of Bangalore’s appeal places emphasis on the connection between faith and social responsibility. The Church has encouraged its members to view voting not only as a personal right but also as a contribution towards building a stronger nation.
By ensuring that every eligible citizen is registered and able to vote, families can help strengthen democratic participation and ensure that voices within society are represented.
Archbishop Peter Machado concluded his message by praying for peace, justice and unity in the country, encouraging Catholics to remain faithful in their spiritual responsibilities while also becoming responsible citizens committed to the welfare of society.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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