Election Commission Begins Voter Roll Revision in Bihar Amid Protests
- June 29, 2025
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The Election Commission of India has commenced a special intensive revision of electoral rolls in Bihar, despite facing protests from opposition parties. This initiative mandates that voters who registered after 2003 must provide proof of citizenship. To ensure accuracy and compliance, approximately 98,450 booth level officers have been deployed to conduct door-to-door verifications across the state. The Election Commission has defended this revision process, emphasizing its necessity to meet constitutional requirements for voter eligibility and to adhere to established rules for electoral roll revisions prior to elections. The decision to undertake this revision has sparked significant controversy and opposition backlash. Critics argue that the requirement for citizenship proof could disenfranchise many eligible voters, particularly those from marginalized communities who may find it challenging to produce the necessary documentation. Opposition parties have accused the Election Commission of acting under political pressure and have called for a halt to the process until further consultations are held. However, the Election Commission maintains that the revision is a routine exercise aimed at ensuring the integrity and accuracy of the electoral rolls. By verifying voter information, the Commission seeks to prevent electoral fraud and uphold democratic principles. The process is expected to be comprehensive, with officers visiting each household to verify details and collect necessary documents. As Bihar prepares for upcoming elections, the outcome of this revision could significantly impact voter turnout and election results. The controversy surrounding the revision highlights ongoing debates about voter identification laws and their implications for democratic participation in India.