Have Any Appeals Been Filed Regarding Errors in the Final Voter List? Bihar CEO Speaks Out
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Synopsis
In a significant announcement, Bihar's Chief Electoral Officer confirms that throughout the 2025 Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, no appeals were submitted by District Magistrates. This raises questions about the integrity of the electoral process and the absence of legal challenges at the district level.
Key Takeaways
- No appeals filed regarding errors in voter lists during SIR.
- 65 lakh names identified for removal; 21.53 lakh new names added.
- Supreme Court mandates ECI to justify exclusions from the voter list.
- Bihar State Legal Services Authority to assist excluded voters.
- Electoral integrity is crucial for democracy.
New Delhi, Oct 13 (NationPress) The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Bihar has revealed that no appeals have been lodged by any District Magistrate under Section 24(A) of the Representation of the People Act across all 243 Assembly constituencies in Bihar during the 2025 Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
In a statement on X, the CEO mentioned: “Throughout the Special Intensive Revision Campaign of 2025 in Bihar, no appeals were submitted by the District Magistrate under Section 24(A) of the Representation of the People Act concerning the addition or removal of names in the electoral rolls by the Electoral Registration Officer across all 243 Assembly Constituencies until 12.10.2025.
This assertion indicates that there were no district-level legal challenges against the decisions made by Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) regarding the modification of names in the voter registration lists during the SIR process.
As part of the SIR, the draft electoral rolls were released on August 1, 2025, following the collection of enumeration forms from eligible voters. In this period, approximately 65 lakh names were flagged for removal (due to death, migration, or duplicate registrations), while 21.53 lakh new names were incorporated, culminating in a new electoral roll totaling around 7.42 crore voters.
The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has already approached the Supreme Court, alleging that the SIR 2025 contradicts previous regulations and imposes unfair proof burdens on voters.
Indeed, the Supreme Court has requested the Election Commission of India (ECI) to provide details regarding 3.66 lakh names that were excluded from the final roll and whether such exclusions are warranted, given the CEO's claim that no appeals have been made.
Moreover, in light of concerns raised by excluded voters, the Supreme Court has instructed the Bihar State Legal Services Authority to facilitate district-level assistance for those affected in filing appeals.
Point of View
It is crucial to maintain transparency and fairness in the electoral process. The absence of appeals indicates a smooth revision process; however, concerns raised by the Association for Democratic Reforms must be addressed to ensure that all voters are adequately represented and that their rights are protected. Upholding electoral integrity is essential for a healthy democracy.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is an initiative to update electoral rolls, ensuring they accurately reflect eligible voters. This process includes adding new names and removing those who are no longer eligible.
What does Section 24(A) of the Representation of the People Act entail?
Section 24(A) allows for appeals against decisions made by Electoral Registration Officers regarding the addition or deletion of names in electoral rolls.
How many voters were affected during the 2025 SIR?
During the 2025 SIR, approximately 65 lakh names were identified for deletion, while 21.53 lakh new names were added, resulting in a total of around 7.42 crore voters.
What action has the Supreme Court taken regarding the SIR?
The Supreme Court has requested the Election Commission of India to provide details on the 3.66 lakh names excluded from the final voter list and whether those exclusions are justified.
What support is available for excluded voters?
The Supreme Court has directed the Bihar State Legal Services Authority to assist affected individuals at the district level in filing appeals.
