Will the SC Address the Petitions Against SIR in Bihar Today?
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court is set to hear crucial petitions today regarding the Election Commission's controversial Special Intensive Revision in Bihar. This high-stakes legal debate raises questions about voter rights and electoral integrity as the state prepares for its upcoming assembly elections.
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court is hearing petitions against the SIR in Bihar.
- Concerns about voter disenfranchisement are rising as elections approach.
- The Election Commission defends its revision process as necessary.
- The SIR aims to ensure electoral roll accuracy.
- The outcome could impact electoral participation in Bihar.
New Delhi, July 28 (NationPress) The Supreme Court is poised to deliberate on a series of petitions this Monday that challenge the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls in Bihar.
This initiative has sparked intense political and legal discussions as the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections approach, with accusations regarding potential voter disenfranchisement.
A Bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi will preside over the case. The petitioners have raised concerns about the timing and legality of the revision, arguing that the Election Commission has embarked on an extensive revision process in a state preparing for elections without adequate safeguards or public transparency.
The petitioners assert that this process may lead to the widespread removal of eligible voters and accuse the electoral body of conducting a “drastic and rushed” operation lacking sufficient transparency. They contend that this revision could significantly affect electoral engagement and fairness.
In its defense, the Election Commission maintains that the SIR is a legitimate and essential measure for cleansing the electoral rolls. According to its affidavit, over 1.5 lakh booth-level agents from various political entities were involved in the process to ensure transparency.
The Commission claims that the revision aims to eliminate ineligible or duplicate entries and rectify inaccuracies.
During a previous hearing, the Supreme Court encouraged the Election Commission to consider accepting Aadhaar cards, ration cards, or existing voter ID cards as valid forms of identification for voter verification. However, the Commission has responded that no individual can be included in the voter list based solely on these documents, as verification must adhere to legal standards.
Previously, on July 10, the apex court highlighted three central issues to be explored in the hearing: the legal authority of the Election Commission to execute a special revision, the legitimacy of its procedures, and the timing of the operation given its proximity to significant state elections.
Point of View
It is essential to prioritize the integrity of the electoral process. The Supreme Court's examination of the Election Commission's actions in Bihar reflects a commitment to ensuring that all eligible voters can participate in the upcoming elections. Upholding voter rights is vital for maintaining public trust in our democratic system.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Special Intensive Revision (SIR)?
The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is an initiative by the Election Commission aimed at updating and cleansing the electoral rolls to ensure that only eligible voters are included.
Why are petitions challenging the SIR?
Petitions are challenging the SIR due to concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement and the legality of the revision process, especially so close to the elections.
What are the main issues being addressed in the Supreme Court hearing?
The Supreme Court will address the legal authority of the Election Commission to conduct the revision, the validity of its procedures, and the timing of the exercise relative to the upcoming elections.
How does the Election Commission justify the SIR?
The Election Commission argues that the SIR is necessary to eliminate ineligible or duplicate names from the electoral rolls and to maintain the integrity of the electoral process.
What has the Supreme Court previously advised regarding voter verification?
The Supreme Court has previously advised the Election Commission to consider accepting various forms of identification, such as Aadhaar cards and ration cards, for voter verification.
