Top news of the day: ECI sets new SIR rules, extends objection periods in Delhi, Maharashtra; drought declared in Maharashtra’s 265 talukas, and more

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Saturday (September 26, 2026) announced a slew of decisions regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls following a full-bench meeting. This comes amid the ongoing row over reports of “illegal” decisions and dissent within the poll body. The declaration attached to Form 6 would have to be filled out only during the SIR exercise, the ECI said, adding that the earlier format would be applicable otherwise for fresh voter registration.

Maharashtra Government on Saturday (September 26, 2026) issued a government resolution (GR) declaring drought in 265 of the State’s 358 talukas based on the Agriculture Commissioner’s report, following prolonged rainfall deficits causing crop loss in the State. This covers major parts of Vidarbha, Marathwada, North Maharashtra and the Pune division. The worst-hit districts are Yavatmal (16 taluks), Jalgaon (15) and Ahilyanagar/Nagpur/Amravati/Nanded (14 each).