Why Did Bihar SIR Exclude Aadhaar from Document List?
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Synopsis
As the Supreme Court prepares to deliberate on Bihar's electoral rolls, the ADR raises alarm over the exclusion of Aadhaar and ration cards as valid documents, questioning the consistency of ECI's decisions and the potential impact on voters. This legal scrutiny highlights significant concerns about the electoral process in Bihar.
Key Takeaways
- The SIR process in Bihar is controversial.
- Exclusion of Aadhaar raises concerns over voter disenfranchisement.
- Electoral Registration Officers have significant discretionary powers.
- Voters are not provided sufficient time to appeal removals.
- The implications of this decision could impact future elections.
New Delhi, July 26 (NationPress) As the Supreme Court is set to hear a case on Monday regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, the petitioner, the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR), has contested the Election Commission of India (ECI)'s decision to exclude Aadhaar and ration cards from the list of acceptable documents, as reported by a lawyer on Saturday.
In response to the ECI's filing, ADR argued that the 11 documents currently approved for verification are just as vulnerable to being obtained through fraudulent means.
"The inclusion of Aadhaar as a valid document for securing various certificates, such as Permanent Residence Certificate, OBC/SC/ST Certificates, and passports, renders the ECI's dismissal of Aadhaar – a document widely possessed – completely illogical in the context of this SIR order," stated the ADR.
The NGO expressed serious concerns regarding the arbitrary powers held by Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and the absence of a clear procedure that could lead to arbitrary actions.
Furthermore, it claimed that voters whose names are being removed from the electoral rolls have not been afforded sufficient time to appeal against the ECI's decisions.
On July 10, the Supreme Court commenced hearings on petitions contesting the SIR in Bihar but declined to halt the ECI's activities in the election-bound state.
The NGO noted that media reports have indicated that enumeration forms are being filled out in Bihar without the presence of voters.
"With elections slated for October-November 2025, many voters lacking documentation who have submitted forms but are not listed on the draft rolls will struggle to be included. The ramifications of removing migrated voters could be significant if they are concentrated in specific constituencies and demographics," the NGO cautioned.
It also remarked that when a similar SIR exercise was conducted in Assam, the ECI stated that it wasn't the ERO's job to verify citizenship, yet their stance appears inconsistent in the case of Bihar.
The organization further underscored the worries of political parties regarding the inclusion of fictitious voters, removal of legitimate voters who support opposition parties, and the potential for voting to occur after polls have closed.
Previously, the ECI justified its requirement for proof of Indian citizenship for inclusion in the voter list, asserting that it is their duty under Article 326 and the Representation of the People Act to ensure the voter list comprises solely Indian citizens.
Point of View
It is vital to ensure that electoral processes are transparent and equitable. The concerns raised by the ADR regarding the exclusion of widely held documents like Aadhaar merit serious consideration. Upholding the integrity of voter rolls is crucial for the democratic framework, and any arbitrary actions by electoral authorities must be scrutinized.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar?
The SIR is a process implemented by the Election Commission of India to update and revise the electoral rolls in Bihar to ensure accurate voter representation.
Why was Aadhaar excluded from the list of documents?
The Election Commission of India excluded Aadhaar and ration cards from the approved list, citing concerns over authenticity and fraud.
What are the implications of excluding Aadhaar?
Excluding Aadhaar may disenfranchise many voters who use it as a primary form of identification, particularly in a state like Bihar.
How can voters appeal the ECI's decision?
Voters can file appeals to contest their removal from the electoral rolls, but the ADR claims that they have not been given adequate time to do so.
What is the role of Electoral Registration Officers (EROs)?
EROs are responsible for overseeing the electoral roll preparation process, but concerns have been raised about their discretionary powers.
