Electoral Roll Controversy Brews in Bihar as Missing Voter Names Spark Political Debate

A political controversy is intensifying in Bihar after the Election Commission disclosed that more than 52 lakh names are absent from the state's electoral rolls. Opposition leaders are raising alarms about widespread exclusions, while BJP MLA Haribhushan Thakur defends the revisions as both necessary and legitimate.

Thakur asserts that the removals included only ineligible names, such as those of deceased individuals, people who have migrated permanently out of Bihar, individuals with multiple voter IDs, and illegal immigrants. Thakur asked opposition leaders to identify eligible voters who have been unfairly removed.

JD leader Tejashwi Yadav criticized the Special Intensive Review (SIR) of the electoral rolls, alleging irregularities and disenfranchisement, particularly affecting poor and migrant voters. He demanded transparency and accountability, emphasizing the fundamental right to vote as a cornerstone of democratic integrity.

(With inputs from agencies.)