Foreign Nationals Identified in Bihar Voter Survey

A recent door-to-door survey conducted as part of the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Bihar’s voter lists has revealed the presence of numerous individuals from Nepal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar residing in the state. According to sources within the poll body, these individuals have allegedly acquired Indian documents such as Aadhaar, domicile certificates, and ration cards through illegal means.

Investigation and Verification Process

Block Level Officers have been tasked with identifying these individuals during their house-to-house visits. The survey, which runs from August 1 to August 30, aims to verify the authenticity of these claims. If proven true, the names of these foreign nationals will be removed from the voter list. This development has intensified the ongoing debate about voter roll revisions in Bihar, especially with Assembly elections on the horizon.

Purpose and Timing of the Special Intensive Revision

The Special Intensive Revision was launched on June 24 to update Bihar’s voter list by adding eligible citizens and removing ineligible ones. The last revision occurred in 2003. Factors such as rapid urbanization, frequent migration, new eligible voters, non-reporting of deaths, and inclusion of illegal immigrants necessitated this revision. However, the timing has been questioned by opposition parties like the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress, who allege it is a ploy to exclude certain voters.

Legal Challenges and Supreme Court Involvement

The matter has escalated to the Supreme Court, with multiple petitions filed against the voter list revision. Petitioners include RJD MP Manoj Jha, Association for Democratic Reforms, People’s Union for Civil Liberties, activist Yogendra Yadav, Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, and former MLA Mujahid Alam. During a hearing on Thursday, the court expressed concerns about completing the exercise without disenfranchising genuine voters before the elections.

Court’s Concerns Over Timing and Documentation

The Supreme Court questioned whether Aadhaar should be considered proof of citizenship after the Election Commission stated otherwise. It emphasized that Aadhaar, ration cards, and identity cards issued by the Election Commission should be valid for re-verifying voters’ identities. The court also highlighted doubts about completing this extensive review in time for elections without affecting genuine voters’ rights.