Public Hearings by Ex-Judges' Commission Set for October 15

The independent commission established by the Lawyers' Association for Constitution (LAFC), under the leadership of former Supreme Court Justice Madan Lokur, is set to commence its public hearings on October 15. The hearings will take place at Jawahar Bhawan in New Delhi, running from 9 AM to 1:30 PM. This initiative aims to address concerns regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls conducted by the Election Commission of India.

The commission was formed to evaluate the constitutional validity and methodology of the SIR process, as well as its impact on voters. During the hearings, testimonies from individuals who have raised grievances will be documented, ensuring that their concerns are formally acknowledged. This marks the first of several planned hearings across the nation, designed to provide a platform for voters to express their issues and experiences related to the electoral roll revision.

According to the commission's press release, the hearings are crucial for protecting the electoral rights of citizens and reinforcing the democratic principle that every eligible voter's voice is significant. The commission has emphasized the importance of public engagement in discussions surrounding electoral roll revisions and the safeguarding of voting rights for eligible citizens. Furthermore, it has invited the Election Commission of India to appoint a senior officer to participate in the proceedings and listen to voter testimonies, ensuring a neutral and just process.

The commission comprises notable figures, including former Supreme Court Justice AK Patnaik, former Chief Justice of Jammu and Kashmir High Court Badar Durrez Ahmad, former Delhi High Court Justice Rekha Sharma, and former Patna High Court Justice Anjana Prakash. Legal support will be provided by senior advocates such as Kapil Sibal and Prashant Bhushan, among others, who will assist in the hearings and documentation of testimonies.

Operational support will be coordinated by a dedicated committee and secretariat based at the LAFC. The commission aims to complete its inquiry and release a comprehensive report to the public by December 2026, highlighting its findings and recommendations regarding the electoral roll revision process.