The Election Commission (EC) is facing scrutiny from opposition parties regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. Concerns have been raised about the potential disenfranchisement of voters, particularly from marginalized communities, due to stringent documentation requirements.
Opposition parties have alleged that the SIR process, which involves updating the electoral rolls, could lead to a large-scale exclusion of eligible voters. They argue that the EC's demands for specific documents may disproportionately affect poorer sections of society who may lack the necessary paperwork. Some leaders have described the SIR as an "exercise of exclusion," suggesting it might be a deliberate attempt to reduce the voter base. Allegations have also surfaced that the revision process could unfairly benefit the ruling party by strategically excluding opposition supporters.
The EC has refuted these allegations, asserting that the SIR aims to ensure full participation of all eligible voters and political parties. The commission has clarified that the draft voters' list, which was published on August 1, is not final. A period from August 1 to September 1 has been designated for citizens to file claims and objections, allowing for corrections of any wrongful inclusions or exclusions. The final list will be published on September 30.
The EC has urged those who believe they have been wrongfully excluded to file claims during this period. They have also questioned the motives of those raising concerns, asking why they are creating "a big fuss now" when there is ample time to address any issues. The EC has encouraged all parties to actively participate in the process by asking their booth-level agents to submit claims and objections.
During the first phase of the SIR, which concluded on July 25, enumeration forms were received from 7.24 crore voters, representing 91.69% of Bihar's electorate. However, booth-level officers identified approximately 36 lakh electors who had either permanently shifted or were untraceable. Additionally, around 7 lakh voters were found to be registered at multiple locations. The EC has stated that the status of these voters will be scrutinized, and genuine electors can still be added back to the electoral rolls during the claims and objection period.
Critics of the SIR have also raised concerns about the rejection of certain documents and the accuracy of data regarding deceased voters. Some opposition leaders have alleged that the EC is overstepping its mandate by engaging in citizenship verification. The EC maintains that its goal is to ensure a clean and accurate electoral roll, and it is taking steps to prevent any eligible voter from being left behind.
