Amid political tension over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Bihar’s electoral rolls, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has made a symbolic yet powerful statement. By posting an image of Article 326 of the Indian Constitution on its official social media handle, the ECI has reaffirmed its commitment to universal adult suffrage—indirectly responding to the rising opposition criticism of its ongoing voter list verification campaign in the state.
What Article 326 Ensures
Article 326 guarantees voting rights to all Indian citizens aged 18 or above, who are not disqualified due to reasons like mental unsoundness, criminal convictions, or electoral malpractices. The ECI’s post signals that it is simply carrying out its constitutional duties to ensure a fair, updated, and error-free electoral roll.
A Silent Message to the Opposition
Although the Commission avoided direct commentary, its move is widely seen as a rebuttal to opposition claims that the voter verification drive could disenfranchise large sections of the population. The Commission clarified through the post that its aim is not voter exclusion, but ensuring only eligible citizens appear on the electoral rolls.
Concerns Over SIR Timing and Logistics
Opposition parties argue the timing of the SIR is flawed, especially during Bihar’s flood-prone monsoon season. They claim it may hinder the participation of marginalized and illiterate voters. In 2003, the last similar drive took two years—now, the target is to complete it within a month despite the state’s logistical challenges.
Currently, nearly 73% of Bihar’s geography is susceptible to flood damage, particularly in districts like West Champaran, Sitamarhi, Supaul, and Araria. Critics say the SIR may become practically unmanageable and exclude legitimate voters.
ECI’s Stand and Road Ahead
Despite the challenges, the ECI remains firm. On 24 June, it issued a notification affirming its intention to revise Bihar’s voter rolls under Article 326 and Section 16 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950. The revision aims to identify and remove fake voters, verify genuine ones, and prepare the state for the 2025 Assembly elections.
The deadline for completing the verification is 26 July. Over 7.88 crore voters are on record, and forms have already been distributed for them to validate their details using supporting documents.
