CEC Defends Electoral Roll Revision Amid Criticism

Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar has addressed opposition concerns regarding the Special Summary Revision (SIR) of Bihar’s electoral rolls. In a pointed response to criticism, Kumar questioned whether the Election Commission (EC) should allow fraudulent votes to persist. This statement comes as the EC undertakes a comprehensive review of the state’s voter lists, aiming to ensure accuracy and integrity in the electoral process.

Significant Number of Voters Not Found

The EC’s ongoing efforts have identified 61.1 lakh electors in Bihar as ‘not found.’ This category includes voters who are deceased, have migrated, or are listed as duplicates. The identification of these discrepancies is part of a broader initiative to clean up the electoral rolls and prevent any potential misuse of voter information.

High Coverage and Digital Advancements

Despite the challenges, the EC reports that 99% of electors have been covered in this revision process. A significant advancement in this effort is the digitization of forms, which aims to streamline the process and enhance transparency. The move towards digital records is expected to facilitate easier access and verification for both officials and voters.

Upcoming Draft Roll Publication

The draft electoral roll is scheduled for publication on August 1, providing an opportunity for public review and feedback. This step is crucial for ensuring that any remaining inaccuracies can be addressed before finalizing the voter lists. The EC’s commitment to transparency and accuracy underscores its dedication to maintaining a fair electoral process.

Implications for Future Elections

The rigorous revision of Bihar’s electoral rolls has significant implications for future elections in the state. By addressing issues of fraudulent voting and ensuring accurate voter representation, the EC aims to bolster public confidence in the electoral system. This initiative highlights the ongoing efforts to uphold democratic principles and ensure that every legitimate vote is counted.