The Election Commission of India (ECI) has categorically denied allegations made by several opposition parties regarding manipulation of the voter list in Bihar. Responding to the Supreme Court in connection with the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, the Commission asserted that it is acting in accordance with its constitutional duty to ensure accuracy in electoral rolls by eliminating fake or duplicate entries.
With Bihar's assembly elections on the horizon — due before the end of the year — concerns over alleged irregularities in the voter list have stirred political controversy. However, the Election Commission, in its affidavit, maintained that the SIR exercise is being carried out transparently and lawfully, under the powers granted by Article 324 of the Constitution.
"The process is nearing completion and has been executed consistently and within jurisdiction," the Commission stated. It also informed the apex court that over 90% of enumeration forms had already been submitted more than ten days prior to the Commission’s deadline for the ongoing revision.
Addressing media reports on the issue, the Commission criticized certain news coverage as “misleading,” emphasizing that no eligible voter would be denied inclusion. “Every individual who submitted an enumeration form — with or without supporting documents — will be featured in the draft roll to be released on August 1,” the ECI said.
The Commission further clarified that voters who missed the initial deadline still have the opportunity to be included. “Anyone excluded from the draft roll can submit a prescribed form with the necessary declaration and documents to be added to the final electoral list. This claims period will remain open until September 1, 2025,” it added.
The clarification from the ECI aims to allay fears of voter suppression and reaffirms its commitment to conducting free and fair elections in the state.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)