The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar has become a major political battleground ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Tejashwi Yadav, a prominent opposition leader, has strongly criticized the SIR process, hinting at a potential boycott of the polls, alleging the exercise is dishonest and designed to manipulate voter lists to favor the ruling NDA.

Yadav has accused the Election Commission of India (ECI) of acting under the influence of the BJP and undermining the democratic process. He questioned the need for the SIR, claiming that genuine voters are being removed from the rolls while the ECI presents inflated revision figures to the Supreme Court. He stated, "Earlier voters chose the government, now the government is choosing voters," labeling the exercise a "fraudulent drive". Yadav has also argued that the ECI is not addressing the concerns raised by the opposition regarding the SIR.

The SIR requires voters to sign enumeration forms and provide fresh photographs along with a valid proof of residence. Concerns have been raised because those whose names were not on the electoral rolls of 2003 need to provide additional documents. The opposition INDIA bloc alleges that this requirement will disproportionately affect marginalized communities and those who may not possess the necessary documentation, potentially leading to mass disenfranchisement. Yadav criticized the requirement of 11 documents for voter registration under the SIR, stating that this places an undue burden on the poor.

In response to these concerns, the ECI has maintained that the SIR is a lawful and constitutional exercise aimed at ensuring that all eligible citizens are included in the electoral rolls. The ECI has also stated that the citizenship of an individual would not be terminated if found ineligible for registration during the SIR. However, this has not quelled the opposition's concerns, who view the SIR as a "citizenship screening" exercise.

The issue has escalated to the Supreme Court, where petitions have been filed challenging the SIR. The Supreme Court has questioned the timing of the exercise, which is occurring months before the Assembly elections. It has also asked the ECI to consider Aadhaar, voter ID cards, and ration cards as valid documents during the verification drive, which are not currently included in the list of acceptable documents. The ECI has defended its decision not to include Aadhaar, stating that it is only proof of identity and does not help in screening eligibility.

The political fallout from the SIR has been significant. Yadav has indicated that a boycott of the upcoming elections is an option, stating, "If the BJP wants to run the government using fake voter lists, then just give them an extension. What's the point of holding elections if the entire process is dishonest?". He added that he would consult with alliance partners and the public before making a final decision.

The BJP, on the other hand, has dismissed Yadav's allegations as a sign of "fear of defeat". BJP leaders have accused Yadav of making excuses and deflecting from the real issues. They maintain that the SIR is necessary to ensure fair and transparent elections.

The controversy surrounding the SIR highlights the deep political divisions in Bihar and raises concerns about the fairness and integrity of the electoral process. The Supreme Court's involvement underscores the seriousness of the issue and the potential implications for the upcoming elections. With the elections approaching, the SIR is likely to remain a contentious issue, shaping the political landscape of Bihar.