Opposition Raises Concerns Over Election Commission’s Voter Roll Revision Timing

With the 2025 Bihar elections on the horizon, the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) nationwide Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls has sparked debate and drawn criticism from Opposition parties. The timing of the revision, particularly its proximity to the Supreme Court’s hearing on petitions related to the Bihar SIR, has raised concerns about transparency and potential impact on voter inclusion across the country.

Opposition Questions Timing and Lack of Consultation

Political leaders across the opposition spectrum have questioned the ECI’s decision to initiate the nationwide SIR before the Supreme Court delivers its verdict on the Bihar revision process. They argue that a lack of consultation and potential discrepancies in the process could disenfranchise eligible voters.

Impact on Voter Inclusion a Key Concern

A major point of contention is the potential impact of the SIR on voter inclusion. The Opposition fears that the hurried process, without adequate safeguards and transparency, could lead to eligible voters being excluded from the electoral rolls, thereby impacting the fairness and integrity of the electoral process.