Voters in Bihar Given an Opportunity for a Fair Resurgence on the Electoral Rolls Following Editorial Adjustments

The Election Commission (EC) of India is facing a significant challenge as it prepares for the upcoming elections, with the controversy surrounding the Bihar voter rolls refusing to subside. The deadline for re-inclusion in the rolls has been extended past September 1, as the EC plays catch-up to ensure that the poll rolls are revised before the elections.

The question remains whether the EC has learned its lesson from the Bihar poll rolls contretemps. Initial reports suggest that the Special Intensive Revision exercise in Bihar was flawed, with around 65 lakh voters initially left out of the rolls. This oversight has raised doubts over where a person can expect to vote - the place of origin or place of normal residence.

The Aadhaar card, a system often used for identity verification, is not considered standalone proof of citizenship for inclusion in the Bihar voter list. This has led to a situation where many of the 65 lakh voters may not have ready redress due to the Aadhaar card's limitations. The EC's handling of this issue has led to questions about its credibility.

However, the EC is now taking corrective measures to redress genuine grievances. Eligible voters must apply with acceptable documents before the last date of nominations to the Assembly elections to regain their voting rights. The responsible authority for reviewing these additional applications is the Election Commission of India.

The EC may need to examine the legality of the Aadhaar card not being standalone proof of citizenship again for future polls to be conducted fairly. The porous Aadhaar card system, which has more holes than Swiss cheese, may need to undergo a greater special intensive revision to be considered credible as proof of identity.

The conduct of Bihar polls is currently in prime focus, with the EC having to do a rushed job to complete the rolls due to the large number of omissions. The Supreme Court has answered in the negative that the Aadhaar card is standalone proof of citizenship for a voter to be included in the Bihar voter list. The EC has offered another opportunity for voters unlawfully left out of the Bihar poll rolls to vote.

As the elections approach, it is crucial that the EC addresses these issues to ensure a fair and transparent voting process. The EC's actions will be closely watched, and it will be expected to learn from its mistakes to restore public trust.

Voters in Bihar Given an Opportunity for a Fair Resurgence on the Electoral Rolls Following Editorial Adjustments