Why Have Political Parties Remained Silent on 60,010 Claims in Bihar?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 60,010 claims filed by individual voters.
- No political party has lodged any objections.
- Deadline for claims and objections: September 1.
- Eligible voters can submit Form 6 to be included.
- Political engagement is crucial for electoral integrity.
New Delhi, Aug 20 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Wednesday that the Bihar Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has received a total of 60,010 claims and objections from voters who are either seeking to add or remove names from the draft electoral rolls.
Out of these, 2,394 applications have been processed by the Electoral Registration Officers (EROs).
The electoral body emphasized that no political party has lodged any complaints or objections since the draft rolls were published on August 1, despite the 20-day period that has elapsed. The deadline for submitting claims and objections is set for September 1.
In accordance with established procedures, claims and objections will be resolved seven days following the verification of the necessary documents.
Additionally, the Commission reported that since August 1, 198,660 new electors -- those who reached the age of 18 after the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process -- have sought inclusion in the electoral rolls.
The ECI has granted a month-long period for individuals, political parties, and their 1.6 lakh booth-level agents (BLAs) to submit objections or request corrections. Notably, the RJD has 47,506 BLAs, the Congress 17,549, and Left parties more than 2,000, together totaling over 67,000 representatives.
The Commission has reiterated that, despite numerous appeals, political parties have not actively engaged in the revision process.
“Voters are encouraged to submit their claims and objections to correct any inaccuracies in the draft electoral roll of Bihar released on August 1. Remarkably, no political party has submitted even a single claim or objection,” stated the EC.
The electoral rolls are compiled strictly in compliance with legal standards, the Commission clarified.
Eligible voters who are not included can submit Form 6 along with an Aadhaar copy by September 1, 2025.
If any ineligible names are present, objections can be filed via Form 7 by an elector from the relevant Assembly constituency.
Recognized parties’ BLAs may also submit Forms 6 and 7 on behalf of voters.
Furthermore, individuals who are not electors in that constituency can lodge objections with a declaration under Rule 20(3)(b) of the RER 1960, as per the ECI's statement.