Amidst controversy surrounding the revision of Bihar's electoral rolls, the Election Commission (EC) has clarified that officials can also rely on field inquiries for the inclusion of names in the electoral rolls. This announcement comes as the EC undertakes a special intensive revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in Bihar, a process scheduled to conclude on September 30. The revision aims to ensure that only eligible citizens are included in the electoral roll, addressing issues such as rapid urbanization, migration, and the inclusion of ineligible individuals.
The EC's directive allows Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and Assistant EROs (AEROs) to conduct inquiries if they doubt the eligibility of a proposed elector due to missing documents or other reasons. In such cases, the ERO/AERO will issue a notice to the elector and make a decision based on field inquiry, documentation, or other relevant information. A "speaking" order will be passed in each case, ensuring transparency and accountability.
To prevent disenfranchisement, the EC has emphasized that no entries will be deleted from the draft roll without conducting a proper inquiry and providing the concerned person with a fair opportunity to be heard. If an individual is excluded from the roll and remains aggrieved, they can appeal to the District Magistrate (DM) and subsequently file a second and final appeal before the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO).
The special intensive revision (SIR) is being carried out in phases. The first phase, which ran from June 25 to July 3, involved distributing Enumeration Forms (EFs) to electors listed on the electoral roll as of June 24. The second phase focused on assisting electors in filling out and submitting their forms by July 25. Electors who missed the initial deadline can still apply during the claims and objections period using Form 6. The fifth and final phase, from August 1 to September 1, will allow for the submission of claims and objections. The final electoral roll is scheduled to be published on September 30.
The EC has also taken steps to ensure transparency and inclusivity throughout the revision process. The draft roll, the list of claims and objections, and the final roll will be uploaded on the state/UT CEO's website and shared with all recognized parties. Booth level agents appointed by parties will be involved in every stage of the revision process, and EROs will share a list of claims and objections with them weekly. Photos of the draft and final roll being handed over to parties, as well as the supply of the weekly list of claims and objections, will be made public.
Despite the EC's assurances, the revision exercise has faced criticism from opposition parties, who fear that it could lead to the disenfranchisement of marginalized communities. Concerns have been raised about the requirement for electors to submit EFs and supporting documents, with some arguing that this could disproportionately affect Muslim, Dalit, and poor migrant communities. RJD MP Manoj Jha has even moved the Supreme Court, challenging the EC's order and alleging that it violates constitutional rights. Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra has also approached the apex court against the EC's order.
The EC has refuted these claims, asserting that the SIR is being implemented smoothly and that there has been no change in instructions. The EC has also clarified that voters can submit documents until July 25, and those who fail to do so will have another opportunity during the Claims & Objections period. The commission has urged the public to disregard misleading statements and to be aware of the facts regarding the SIR process. The EC has stated that the exercise was necessitated by several factors including rapid urbanization, frequent migration, young citizens becoming eligible to vote, non-reporting of deaths, and inclusion of the names of foreign illegal immigrants.
The revision of Bihar's electoral rolls is a complex and sensitive undertaking. The EC's emphasis on field inquiries and its commitment to transparency and inclusivity are important steps in ensuring that all eligible citizens are included in the final electoral roll. However, it remains to be seen whether these measures will be sufficient to address the concerns raised by opposition parties and civil society organizations.
