In a significant development ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Bihar, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the completion of the first phase of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) for electoral rolls. This endeavor aims to ensure the integrity of the voter list by eliminating duplicate entries and removing ineligible voters.
Key Highlights of the Special Intensive Revision
- No Complaints Filed: The ECI reported zero appeals during this revision process in Bihar.
- Electoral Roll Adjustments: Nearly 47 lakh electors were removed, with 21.53 lakh new names added to the rolls.
- Net Increase in Electors: The updated list shows a net increase of 17.87 lakh eligible voters.
- Upcoming Elections: The Assembly elections in Bihar are set for November 6 and 11.
- Expansion of SIR: Following Bihar’s elections, this initiative will be rolled out in 12 other states and Union Territories.
Impact of the Revision in Bihar
The objective of the SIR is to create a more accurate voter list. The ECI focuses on eliminating entries of deceased individuals, non-residents, and foreigners to maintain the electoral process’s integrity. This marks the first such comprehensive revision in over two decades, emphasizing transparency and efficiency within the electoral framework.
The electoral landscape in Bihar is crucial, especially with the high stakes of the forthcoming Assembly elections. The revisions are expected to directly affect voter turnout and overall electoral engagement.
Future of Special Intensive Revision
After the Bihar elections, the ECI plans to apply the SIR approach across additional states. This strategic move aims to fortify the democratic process nationwide by ensuring that electoral rolls are reliable and reflect the true electorate.
