Why Did ECI Report a 300,000 Voter Increase in Bihar?
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Synopsis
The Election Commission of India has addressed the Congress Party's concerns over a 300,000 increase in Bihar's voter count. This discrepancy was explained as a procedural update due to valid applications received after the electoral roll's initial publication, ensuring transparency in the electoral process.
Key Takeaways
- The ECI clarified the increase in voter numbers was due to valid applications received post the initial roll publication.
- Transparency in the electoral process is crucial for maintaining public trust.
- Eligible citizens can enroll even after elections are announced, ensuring broader participation.
New Delhi, Nov 15 (NationPress) The Election Commission of India (ECI) provided a comprehensive explanation on Saturday after the Congress Party expressed concerns regarding a discrepancy of nearly 300,000 voters in Bihar's electoral roll data released before and after the polls.
In a statement on Facebook, the Congress Party questioned why Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar indicated the total number of voters in Bihar as 74.2 million in a press note dated October 6, whereas the Commission's subsequent release pegged the number at 74.5 million after the voting concluded.
The party accused the ECI of lacking transparency and demanded clarification on the sudden rise.
In response, the ECI clarified that the 74.2 million figure mentioned on October 6 was based on data available after the final electoral roll was published on September 30.
This figure resulted from a thorough revision conducted prior to the announcement of the election schedule.
The Commission emphasized that the electoral roll dated September 30 serves as the reference point before elections.
However, as per election regulations, the ECI noted that any eligible citizen can apply for enrollment up until 10 days before the last date for filing nominations in each election phase.
This enrollment window remains open even after the election is announced, allowing new voters to submit claims for inclusion.
Officials reported that between October 1 and the cutoff period—10 days before nomination deadlines for both election phases—the ECI received a significant number of valid applications.
After a thorough review, all eligible voters were added to ensure that no qualified citizen was denied the right to vote.
As a result of these inclusions, the total number of voters increased by approximately 300,000, leading to a final count of around 74.5 million.
The ECI stressed that this updated figure was accurately reflected in its press release issued after the voting concluded.
The Commission maintained that the variation was procedural, lawful, and aligned with established electoral standards.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the ECI's commitment to maintaining electoral integrity. The discrepancy raised by the Congress Party highlights the importance of transparency in the electoral process. The ECI's response reflects adherence to established norms and ensures that all eligible citizens can exercise their democratic rights.
NationPress
15/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the increase in Bihar's voter count?
The increase was due to valid applications received after the final electoral roll publication, allowing eligible citizens to enroll until 10 days before nomination deadlines.
How does the ECI ensure transparency in the electoral process?
The ECI conducts thorough revisions and allows citizens to apply for enrollment, ensuring every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate in elections.
What is the significance of the electoral roll dated September 30?
The September 30 electoral roll serves as the baseline for voter counts before elections are held, establishing a reference point for subsequent updates.
