Electoral Roll Scrutiny: A Move Towards Integrity in Bihar

The Election Commission, facing criticism from the Opposition, is set to launch a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar. This move aims to remove ineligible voters and ensure demographic integrity, particularly in constituencies where migrant numbers surpass victory margins.

Officials highlighted the necessity of the exercise as mandated by Article 326 to verify the eligibility of all voters while excluding those not entitled by law. They noted the challenges posed by individuals holding multiple voter cards across different constituencies, a problem undetectable by software.

The revision will initially target Bihar, with plans for expansion to five more states, coinciding with increased scrutiny on illegal foreign migrants nationwide. Despite addressing duplicate card numbers, the Commission aims to tackle discrepancies in voter registration and ensure fair and transparent elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)