Is ADR Challenging ECI’s Voter List Revision in Bihar?
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Synopsis
The latest petition by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) in the Supreme Court against the Election Commission's voter list revision has sparked a major controversy, potentially influencing the upcoming Bihar elections. Could this legal challenge disrupt the electoral process?
Key Takeaways
- ADR has filed a petition against ECI's SIR.
- Concerns over voter disenfranchisement have been raised.
- The Supreme Court's intervention is being sought.
- Political opposition is mounting against the ECI's decision.
- The situation may escalate as elections approach.
New Delhi, July 5 (NationPress) In a move that could greatly influence the forthcoming high-stakes Bihar Assembly elections, the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has lodged a petition with the Supreme Court on Saturday, contesting the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) decision to initiate a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in the state gearing up for polls.
The petition claims that the ECI’s action is arbitrary and risks disenfranchising millions of voters.
ADR, a non-partisan electoral watchdog, has requested the highest court to intervene, asserting that such a broad revision effort so close to the elections undermines the integrity of the democratic process.
The organization seeks the court’s order to suspend the ongoing revision until a comprehensive and fair verification mechanism is guaranteed. The controversy arose from the ECI's directive dated June 24, which announced the SIR exercise in Bihar.
This revision involves the verification of both existing voter data and new registrations, occurring just months before the state is set to hold elections. This situation has alarmed several political factions, particularly those in the Opposition.
Shortly after the poll panel's announcement on June 24, opposition parties including Lalu Yadav’s RJD, Congress, AIMIM, CPI, and CPM condemned the move, accusing the poll body of acting under the influence of the ruling BJP.
This week, leaders from nearly a dozen political parties within the INDIA bloc approached poll panel officials, including the Chief Election Commissioner, to voice their grievances regarding the SIR, although the poll panel has defended its decision through press statements.
The Commission asserted that the SIR is conducted per the provisions of Article 326, RP Act 1950, and instructions issued for June 2024 and 2025. They stated that all concerns raised by party representatives were thoroughly addressed during meetings.
Additionally, Congress senior leader Pawan Khera, during a press conference this week, did not dismiss the possibility of seeking judicial intervention against the poll panel’s directive.
The submission of this petition by ADR suggests that the situation is likely to escalate in the upcoming days.
Point of View
The situation regarding the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Bihar is a pivotal moment for electoral integrity. The ADR's petition highlights a crucial discourse on voter rights and the importance of a fair electoral process, aligning with the nation’s democratic values.
NationPress
23/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is an exercise conducted by the Election Commission to update and verify electoral rolls, including new registrations and existing voter data.
Why is ADR opposing the SIR in Bihar?
ADR contends that the SIR is being conducted arbitrarily and risks disenfranchising a significant number of voters, undermining the democratic process.
What legal action has ADR taken?
ADR has filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking to halt the ongoing revision process until a fair verification mechanism is established.
How have political parties reacted to the SIR?
Various political parties, especially those in the Opposition, have expressed concerns over the SIR, accusing the Election Commission of acting under the influence of the ruling party.
What is the potential impact of this petition?
The petition could lead to a significant delay or alteration in the electoral process in Bihar, affecting millions of voters' rights.
