The new draft electoral rolls in Bihar, featuring erroneous photos and deceased individuals, face intense scrutiny from opposition parties and election watchdogs. Critics allege that the rushed voter revision process may disenfranchise key demographics, particularly in Muslim-majority regions, as India prepares for pivotal state elections.
Controversy Erupts Over Voter List Errors Ahead of Bihar Elections
Controversy Erupts Over Voter List Errors Ahead of Bihar Elections
Discrepancies in Bihar's new electoral rolls raise concerns about electoral integrity and political bias as key elections approach.
The recent release of updated draft electoral rolls in Bihar has sparked significant controversy as the state gears up for elections in November. The Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision (SIR) aimed to verify the details of the 78.9 million voters in the state but has reportedly resulted in numerous inaccuracies. Of the newly published rolls, which now feature 72.4 million names, opposition parties and election charities claim the list includes wrong photographs and even deceased individuals.
Conducted between June 25 and July 26, the SIR was deemed essential as it was the first update since 2003. The commission indicated that the 6.5 million deletions included 2.2 million deceased voters, 700,000 duplicates, and 3.6 million individuals who have migrated from Bihar. However, opposition parties, particularly critical of the timing and execution, argue that many eligible voters, especially in Muslim-populated border districts, were unjustly excluded.
Political tensions have risen as protests mount outside Parliament, with opposition lawmakers demanding an immediate debate on what they consider an existential threat to democracy. Jagdeep Chhokar from the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) criticized the insufficient time granted for the voter verification process, noting that it had not been adequately conducted.
In the field, many voters expressed confusion and concern. In several impoverished villages, residents reported little awareness about the SIR or its implications. Rekha Devi, a local farmer, lamented the potential loss of voting rights and its devastating effect on poverty levels.
Interviews revealed several cases of discrepancies, such as incorrect photographs accompanying voters' names and individuals listed multiple times. Farmers like Tarkeshwar Singh shared their frustrations about the inaccuracies, noting that the government effort appeared poorly executed.
The ADR is set to challenge the SIR in court, demanding transparency and proper review of the voting list, especially given the outlined discrepancies. Yet, the Election Commission responded to allegations, asserting they would not bear responsibility for claims they consider unfounded or politically motivated.
The political landscape in Bihar remains divided, with the ruling coalition defending the electoral revision efforts. As the situation evolves, the controversy highlights critical questions about electoral integrity and voter representation in India, particularly at this crucial juncture leading up to key elections.
