What is the Latest Update on Bihar's Voter Coverage?
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Synopsis
As the countdown continues for the Bihar elections, the Election Commission of India reveals that a remarkable 94.68% of voters have been covered in the Special Intensive Revision phase. With transparency measures in place, political parties and citizens are gearing up to contribute to the electoral process.
Key Takeaways
- 94.68% of voters in Bihar covered in SIR.
- Draft electoral roll to be published on August 1.
- Final roll expected on September 30.
- Transparency measures include involvement of BLAs.
- Process aims to ensure no eligible voter is excluded.
New Delhi, July 18 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Friday that 94.68% of voters in Bihar have been effectively covered in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls, with just seven days left for the enumeration phase to conclude.
The draft electoral roll is scheduled for publication on August 1, allowing political parties and citizens a full month to propose corrections or additions, as stated in a press release.
Out of the total 7.89 crore voters in Bihar, over 7.11 crore enumeration forms have been submitted, and 6.85 crore have already been digitized.
However, approximately 41 lakh forms remain pending, and around 36.8 lakh voters could not be found at their registered addresses.
This includes more than 12.7 lakh individuals believed to be deceased, 18.1 lakh who may have moved permanently, and 5.9 lakh noted as registered in multiple locations.
To promote transparency and accuracy, the ECI has provided lists of these voters to district presidents of political parties and over 1.5 lakh booth level agents (BLAs) appointed by them.
Each BLA can submit up to 50 certified forms daily until July 25.
This collaborative verification initiative aims to ensure that no eligible voter is excluded.
The final electoral roll will be published on September 30, after addressing claims and objections by September 25.
Both printed and digital versions will be available to recognized political parties and accessible on the ECI website.
Any dissatisfied voter can appeal to the District Magistrate or the Chief Electoral Officer under Section 24 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.
This revision exercise precedes the forthcoming Bihar Assembly elections, expected later this year.
The ECI's proactive actions demonstrate its commitment to preserving the integrity of the electoral process, particularly in a politically sensitive state like Bihar, where voter rolls have historically been contentious.
Political analysts suggest that involving party-appointed BLAs in the verification process could mitigate claims of bias and enhance public trust.
As the final roll approaches publication in September, the groundwork for a significant electoral contest is steadily being established.
Point of View
The meticulous efforts by the Election Commission of India underline its commitment to ensuring a fair electoral process in Bihar. As a politically sensitive region, these initiatives not only promote transparency but also enhance public trust in the electoral system, which is crucial for democratic integrity.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of voters in Bihar have been covered?
As of now, 94.68% of voters in Bihar have been successfully covered in the Special Intensive Revision of the electoral rolls.
When will the draft electoral roll be published?
The draft electoral roll is set to be published on August 1.
What happens after the final electoral roll is published?
After the final electoral roll is published on September 30, any claims and objections will be addressed by September 25.
How can voters appeal if they face issues?
Voters can appeal to the District Magistrate or the Chief Electoral Officer under Section 24 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.
Why is this revision exercise significant?
This revision exercise is crucial as it lays the groundwork for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, ensuring that all eligible voters are accounted for.
