Will the Supreme Court Extend the Claim Submission Deadline for Bihar's Electoral Rolls?
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court will soon hear petitions from political parties in Bihar requesting an extension of the deadline for filing claims and objections to the electoral rolls. This is crucial as the accuracy of voter lists is essential for a strong democracy. Stay tuned for updates on this significant legal matter!
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court will hear petitions on the claim submission deadline.
- Political parties emphasize the importance of voter inclusion.
- Deadline for claims and objections is set for September 1.
- Booth Level Agents can file on behalf of voters.
- Accurate electoral rolls are essential for democracy.
New Delhi, Aug 31 (NationPress) The Supreme Court is set to deliberate on Monday regarding a series of petitions requesting an extension of the September 1 deadline for submitting claims and objections to the draft electoral rolls released by the Election Commission of India (ECI) after the initial phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar.
According to the causelist available on the apex court's website, a bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi will hear the petitions filed by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and other political factions seeking an extension for the poll body's claim submission deadline.
On Friday, the Justice Surya Kant-led bench consented to list the applications challenging the SIR process after advocate Prashant Bhushan brought the issue to their attention.
The ECI reported that the draft rolls, issued on August 1, are currently under review through claims and objections from political entities, voters, and Booth Level Agents (BLAs).
The commission noted it had received 33,326 claims for inclusion and 207,565 objections for exclusion, with 38,342 already resolved.
Additionally, over 15.32 lakh new voters aged 18 and above have submitted Form-6 applications, with 81,073 cases resolved within a week.
The ECI emphasized that all claims and objections must be submitted by September 1 with appropriate documentation, including Aadhaar. Eligible voters excluded from the draft roll can apply via Form 6, while objections to ineligible entries should be filed using Form 7.
Recognized political party BLAs are also permitted to submit on behalf of voters with the necessary declarations. The SIR, initiated on June 24, aims to enhance the accuracy and integrity of electoral rolls.
"Accurate electoral rolls bolster democracy," the Commission noted in its advisory, underscoring that the voter list is created strictly according to the law. The final electoral rolls, following the resolution of claims and objections, will be made publicly available and also accessible on the CEO, Bihar website.
Point of View
It’s vital to recognize that the impending decision by the Supreme Court regarding the electoral roll claims and objections is not just a procedural matter but a means to uphold democratic principles. The integrity of our electoral process is paramount, and ensuring that every eligible voter has a voice is essential for a healthy democracy.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Supreme Court hearing about?
The Supreme Court is set to hear petitions requesting an extension of the September 1 deadline for filing claims and objections to the draft electoral rolls in Bihar.
Why is the claim submission deadline important?
The claim submission deadline is crucial for ensuring that eligible voters are included in the electoral rolls, thereby maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
What are the consequences of missing the deadline?
If the deadline is missed, eligible voters may be excluded from the electoral rolls, impacting their ability to vote in upcoming elections.
Who can file claims and objections?
Claims and objections can be filed by political parties, electors, and Booth Level Agents (BLAs) on behalf of voters.
What documentation is required for filing claims?
Proper documentation, including Aadhaar, is required to file claims and objections against the draft electoral rolls.
