In an interview discussing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, former Supreme Court judge Justice AK Sikri shared critical views on its procedural execution. While agreeing that the exercise is constitutionally valid under the law and backed by judicial precedent, Justice Sikri voiced serious apprehension regarding implementation at the grassroots level. He noted that the procedure improperly places the burden of proof on legitimate voters already listed on the rolls. Sikri observed that exclusion notices often penalise vulnerable, illiterate, and rural citizens over minor clerical errors such as spelling mismatches. Emphasising constitutional mandates under Articles 324, 325, and 326, he warned, "The burden of proof has shifted on the electoral person who is already in the list." He insisted that the Election Commission of India must adhere strictly to statutory procedures and principles of natural justice so genuine citizens are not arbitrarily disenfranchised.
Koodiyattam artiste Kapila Venu opened up about her unexpected tryst with cinema at the India Today Conclave in Kochi, during the session Koodiyattam: The Dance of Continuity.
Prominent session violin maestro Francis Xavier brought music to the India Today South Conclave in Kochi on Tuesday with a soulful performance during the session, Music to the Ears.
In an interview with India Today’s Marya Shakil, Lovely Professional University dean Sorabh Lakhanpal discusses the violence, arson and vandalism on campus and the protest that blocked National Highway 44.
In a special Get Real India report from Maharashtra, 55-year-old teacher Jeevan Mithari travels daily from Kale in Kolhapur to Dhangarwada village, covering the final 2.5 kilometres on foot through a dense forest known for leopards and bisons. Mithari has taught at the Zilla Parishad Primary School for 13 years. The school has only one student, eight-year-old Swara Bodke, who is currently studying in the third standard. If the remote village facility were to shut down, Swara would have to travel 11 kilometres away to attend school in Dhundawade village. With three years of service left before retirement, Mithari continues his daily commute, maintaining that every single student matters.