Bihar Assembly Elections: Election Commission Plans Door-to-Door Voter List Verification

Enhancing Voter List Accuracy in Bihar

In anticipation of the upcoming assembly elections in Bihar, the Election Commission is contemplating a thorough door-to-door verification process for the voter list. This initiative aims to improve the accuracy of electoral rolls in the state.

On Sunday, officials highlighted that various civil society groups and political parties have consistently raised concerns about the inclusion and exclusion of names from the electoral rolls. Notably, the Congress party has accused the Election Commission of manipulating data to benefit the BJP.

Despite adhering to a comprehensive protocol, officials express frustration over ongoing allegations against the Election Commission regarding the inflated electoral rolls, asserting that the process is conducted transparently and under the watchful eye of political entities.

To enhance the integrity of the electoral rolls, the Commission is considering an extensive house-to-house verification as part of the upcoming revision process, aiming to 'purify' the voter list, according to sources.

Historically, such rigorous revisions have occurred, with the last significant update taking place in 2004.

The Election Commission regularly revises electoral rolls nationwide, particularly before elections or by-elections.

Eligibility criteria for voter registration and disqualifications are explicitly outlined in Article 326 of the Constitution and Section 16 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950.

The voter list is continuously updated to account for deceased voters and the inclusion of new ones. Additionally, the frequent relocation of voters within and between states necessitates regular updates.

For instance, in 2024 alone, the Election Commission received forms indicating that 46.26 lakh individuals changed their residences, 2.32 crore sought corrections, and 33.16 lakh requested replacements. This resulted in nearly 3.15 crore amendments across the country within just one year.