Election Commission Expands Special Intensive Revision Process Nationwide

In light of the political uproar surrounding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process in Bihar, the Election Commission of India has announced its extension across the entire country. Reports indicate that during the SIR process in Bihar, the commission identified 1.8 million deceased voters, 2.6 million voters who had moved, and 700,000 duplicate entries. Opposition parties, particularly the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Tejashwi Yadav, have labeled this action as biased and a conspiracy to undermine their voter base. Consequently, the issue escalated to Parliament, leading to disruptions in proceedings for four consecutive days during the monsoon session. This situation illustrates how administrative reforms can become political tools.

Learning from the events in Bihar, the Election Commission has clarified its intention to implement this process nationwide to ensure the accuracy of voter lists. The commission stated, "The Election Commission has decided to initiate a special intensive revision across the country to guarantee the accuracy and integrity of voter lists." They emphasized that maintaining the integrity of voter lists is essential for free and fair elections, with necessary procedures and qualifications outlined in the Representation of the People Act, 1950 (RPA 1950) and the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 (RER, 1960).

Furthermore, the Election Commission clarified that the aim of this process is not to verify citizenship but to confirm voter identity. Documents such as Aadhaar cards, voter IDs, and ration cards are merely tools for identity verification, not proof of citizenship. This clarification was necessary as several opposition leaders had referred to the process as a "purge" and an attempt at "political ethnic cleansing." The matter is currently under consideration by the Supreme Court, with the next hearing scheduled for July 28.

Overall, the Election Commission's initiative is undoubtedly a step towards strengthening and cleansing democracy. Having names of deceased, duplicate, or relocated individuals on the voter list raises questions about the credibility of the electoral process. However, politicizing this sensitive issue appears to be an attempt to manipulate the situation. It is crucial for all political parties to collaborate on reformative measures while upholding the dignity of democracy.

Ultimately, the SIR process is not merely a review of statistics; it is an effort to honor the essence of Indian democracy—the voter. Viewing it from a procedural perspective rather than a political one would be more prudent.